BY VEENA RAO
Tallahassee, FL, November 25, 2025: About 30 students from India were among those severely affected by last Wednesday night’s fire at The Social Seminole apartment complex near Florida State University, according to sources. The fire, which began shortly before 10:30 p.m., displaced more than 70 residents and sent several people to area hospitals.
Fire officials said portions of the building were already engulfed when crews arrived, and at least eight people were injured, including a firefighter.
Among the injured were two Indian students who suffered extensive burn injuries. According to publicly available reports and fundraising pages, Preet Harsoda sustained life-threatening burns over a large portion of his body and remains in critical condition. Another student, Mohammad Aamir Hussain, reportedly suffered third-degree burns across a significant percentage of his body. Both were transferred to a Gainesville hospital for specialized treatment.
A classmate of the victims said extended family members have reached the hospital, but parents in India are still seeking emergency visas to travel to the United States.
The broader group of displaced Indian students lost substantial personal belongings, including clothing, electronics, and important documents. Many were moved into temporary accommodations while volunteers and community groups coordinated meals, transportation, and assistance with replacing passports and academic materials.
FSU officials said the university is working with emergency responders and local agencies to support displaced students through temporary housing, basic needs assistance, and academic support. Donation drives and online fundraisers have begun as the community responds to the widespread losses.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Cover image of a firefighter for representation only. Photo of the victim courtesy of his GoFundMe page.
