Family rushes to India to formally identify Regina father killed in Air India crash

The tragic crash of an Air India plane bound for London has left a family in Saskatchewan devastated. Piyushkumar Patel, a permanent resident of Regina, was on board the ill-fated flight that crashed in Ahmedabad, India, claiming the lives of at least 240 people. Piyushkumar had been visiting his parents in India since May and was en route to the U.K. to meet a friend.

Piyushkumar’s sister, Ashini Patel, revealed that the family in Regina only learned of his presence on the flight hours after the crash, as a result of the time zone difference. She recounted the heart-wrenching moment when her parents in India confirmed his presence on the flight. The news came as a shock to the family, who were unaware of his travel plans until then.

In a race against time, Ashini Patel rushed to Vancouver to assist Piyushkumar’s wife, Ruchita Patel, in obtaining an emergency passport, as hers had expired. The family, comprising three adults and two children, embarked on a flight from Vancouver to India with the hope of aiding officials in the formal identification of Piyushkumar’s body.

The devastating news will have a profound impact on Piyushkumar’s daughters, especially as one of them is set to celebrate her seventh birthday shortly. Ashini Patel expressed concern for her young niece, emphasizing the need to shield her from the harsh reality of her father’s untimely demise. She described Piyushkumar as an exceptional father, dedicated to serving others and caring for both the young and elderly in his community.

As the family grapples with the loss of their beloved Piyushkumar, they are united in their grief and determination to honor his memory. The touching bond between Piyushkumar and his daughters serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact he had on those around him. The legacy of his kindness and selflessness will endure, bringing solace to those who knew and loved him.