Just weeks away from graduating with a degree in Data Science, Bhatti’s tragic accident has sparked public concern, a police investigation, and outpourings of support from her university community and beyond.
Bandna Bhatti, 21, allegedly fell from the house on “Cal Day,” a day of celebration at UC Berkeley held on April 19
Bandna Bhatti, 21, allegedly fell from the house on “Cal Day,” a day of celebration at UC Berkeley held on April 19

What Happened to Bandna Bhatti?

The incident occurred on April 19, 2025, during Cal Day, UC Berkeley’s annual open house event for prospective students. Bhatti was attending a daytime party hosted at the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity house when she reportedly fell at least 12 feet from an external metal staircase, landing in a narrow alleyway. The fall caused her to strike her head, resulting in catastrophic injuries.

Timeline of the Incident:

  • Approx. 1:00 PM: Bhatti falls from the staircase.

  • First 15 minutes: She lies unconscious and undiscovered.

  • Shortly after: Friends find her and bring her inside the house.

  • Fraternity members allegedly ask them to leave.

  • She is then taken to her nearby apartment.

  • Over 7 hours later: Emergency services (911) are finally called.

The delay in medical attention has become a central issue in the ongoing investigation.

What Injuries Did Bandna Bhatti Suffer?

Indian-Origin UC Berkeley Student Paralysed After Fall At Frat House Party
Indian-Origin UC Berkeley Student Paralysed After Fall At Frat House Party

Bhatti's fall caused severe trauma:

  • Spinal fracture resulting in permanent paralysis from the waist down

  • Torn dura, leading to spinal fluid leakage

  • Scapular (shoulder blade) fracture

  • Brain hematoma

Her condition is serious and requires long-term medical intervention, including intensive physical therapy, rehabilitation, and specialized care.

Police Investigation Underway

The Berkeley Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances of the fall and the events that followed—particularly the significant delay in medical care. Authorities are examining:

  • Why emergency responders were not contacted immediately

  • The role of the fraternity members present at the time

  • Whether there was any negligence involved

As of now, no arrests or charges have been reported, but the investigation is ongoing.

Who Is Bandna Bhatti?

Bandna Bhatti is a high-achieving senior majoring in Data Science at UC Berkeley, with a focus on Business and Industrial Analytics. She is of Indian descent and known for her academic excellence, leadership, and involvement in the Sikh Student Association.

According to her family, she was just three weeks away from graduation, preparing for a career she had worked hard to build. In a public statement, they wrote:

“Our beloved sister, Bandna, only 21 years old, was just three weeks away from graduating… when our world was turned upside down. She is now paralyzed from the waist down. These injuries are not only life-altering but will require extensive and ongoing medical care.”

Community Support & Fundraising

Bhatti's family has launched a GoFundMe campaign titled "Bandna's Bounce Back Begins", which has already raised over $100,000 to cover her medical bills and long-term rehabilitation costs. A fundraising half-marathon was also held on May 4 to support her recovery.

The UC Berkeley community has shown overwhelming support, offering emotional and financial help. Messages of solidarity continue to pour in as Bhatti begins her journey toward recovery.

What Happens Next?

As Bhatti undergoes treatment, her family is focused on helping her adjust to her new reality. Meanwhile, questions remain about campus safety, party culture, and accountability in such incidents. The results of the police investigation may have broader implications for university oversight of fraternity organizations.