A 24-year-old Indian student studying in the United States has died from severe burn injuries sustained in a house fire in Albany, New York, the Indian Consulate has confirmed.

The victim, Sahaja Reddy Udumala, was pursuing her Master’s degree in Albany. In a post on X on Friday (local time), the Consulate General of India in New York said it is “deeply saddened by the untimely demise” of Udumala, who died following the fire.

“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences to her family during this difficult time,” the Consulate added, noting that it is in contact with Udumala’s family and providing all possible support.

According to a statement from the Albany Police Department, officers and firefighters responded to a house fire on the morning of December 4. Upon arrival, they found the residence “fully engulfed in flames” and learned that several people were still inside.

Emergency personnel located four adults in the home, treated them at the scene, and transported them to a hospital with serious injuries. Two of the victims were later moved to a specialised burn centre.

“Tragically, the adult female victim succumbed to her injuries she sustained in the fire,” the department said. While authorities withheld the victim’s name pending family notification, Udumala’s family later confirmed her identity.

A fundraiser launched by her cousin, Rathna Gopu, seeks support for funeral and memorial costs, repatriation, travel arrangements, family assistance and other expenses arising from the tragedy.

“…our family experienced an unimaginable tragedy when our beloved cousin, Sahaja Udumala, passed away following a devastating fire accident.

"Sahaja was just 24 years old, a bright and hardworking student pursuing her Master’s degree in Albany, NY, with a future full of dreams, hope, and promise,” Gopu wrote on the fundraising page.

Gopu said Udumala had suffered burns to nearly 90 per cent of her body.

“She struggled immensely, fighting with all the strength she had. Despite all medical efforts, her condition continued to worsen, and she ultimately experienced complete organ failure, leading to her passing this morning,” Gopu said, describing her as someone known for her kindness, determination, and warmth.

“Losing her so suddenly has left our family devastated and facing unexpected emotional and financial hardships.”

As of now, the fundraiser has collected more than USD 109,000 toward its USD 120,000 goal.