New Delhi/IBNS, Dec. 27 -- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday expressed condolences over the death of an Indian doctoral student, Shivank Avasthi, who was shot dead near the University of Toronto's Scarborough campus in Canada.

The MEA said the Indian Consulate in Toronto is in contact with the victim's family and is providing assistance in coordination with local authorities.

"We are also in touch with local authorities as to what the circumstances were that led to the death; we will come to know more of those details. But, we are in touch with local authorities in the matter and also our consulate is extending all possible support to the family of the person who died."

Toronto police said the shooting occurred Tuesday a...