Heartbreak and grief have swept across both the Stanford University community and a small village in rural Pakistan following the tragic death of Aradshar Chaddar, an international student who was killed in a car-bicycle crash early Saturday morning near the Stanford campus.
The fatal collision occurred around 2:57 a.m. on May 31 at the intersection of Palm Drive and Arboretum Road, just west of Stanford Stadium, according to the California Highway Patrol. Authorities confirmed that a vehicle struck a bicyclist in the area, and the rider — later identified by family members as Chaddar — died at the scene from his injuries.
Chaddar, a native of Mano Chak, a small village in Punjab, Pakistan, had come to Stanford with dreams of academic achievement and a brighter future. His death has left loved ones, classmates, and community members devastated.
In an emotional tribute posted to social media, family friend Rana Waqas Lateef expressed the depth of sorrow felt by those who knew the young student.
“With a heart weighed down by grief and disbelief, I share the devastating news of the tragic passing of Aradshar Chaddar, beloved son of my very dear friend Zafaryab Chaddar, in a heartbreaking accident in Stanford,” Lateef wrote. “There are no words strong enough to express the sorrow and shock of losing someone so young, so full of promise, and so deeply loved.”
He continued:
“To Zafaryab and the entire Chaddar family — my heart aches with yours. No parent should have to bear such an unimaginable loss. We are holding you close in our prayers and mourning with you in this darkest hour.”
Authorities have not released further details about the driver involved or whether charges are being considered, though the investigation remains ongoing.
Friends and family across continents are mourning the loss of a young man remembered for his kind heart, bright mind, and unwavering spirit. Chaddar’s presence at Stanford was seen not only as a personal milestone but also as a beacon of hope for his community back home.
