A 20-year-old man accused of killing University of Arizona student Julissa Salazar was arrested in Berlin, Germany, after allegedly leaving the United States. Investigators say Salazar, 19, was found strangled in her Tucson apartment near campus on Thursday. The suspect, Varun Batchigari, faces a first-degree murder charge and is awaiting extradition proceedings.
Salazar’s mother said her daughter had ended her relationship with Batchigari before the killing and described the suspect as a known threat following an earlier arrest. Batchigari had entered the United States on an F-1 student visa and was expelled from the university in July after an alleged fight.
The case remains under investigation, and authorities have not publicly established a final motive. Salazar’s family is mourning a first-generation college student who was preparing to begin her third year and hoped to become a child psychologist.
| 1) | The killing and international arrest |
| 2) | The suspect’s visa and university history |
| 3) | What the victim’s mother said about the warning signs |
| 4) | Salazar’s academic goals and family legacy |
| 5) | The extradition process and investigation |
The killing and international arrest
Police say Julissa Salazar was found strangled in her Tucson apartment near the University of Arizona campus on Thursday. She was 19. Investigators have charged Varun Batchigari, 20, with first-degree murder in connection with her death.
Authorities allege that Batchigari boarded a flight out of the United States after the killing and was later detained in Berlin, Germany. Reports indicate he may have been attempting to travel to India. His arrest outside the United States means that prosecutors must now work through an extradition process before he can be returned to Arizona to face the charge.
The suspect’s visa and university history
Federal law enforcement sources said Batchigari entered the United States from India in January 2024 on an F-1 student visa and enrolled at the University of Arizona. The university confirmed that he was expelled on July 22 after what it described as a fight.
Pima County court records indicate that the University of Arizona Police Department charged Batchigari with assault on May 26. The Department of Homeland Security said foreign student visas are a privilege and that immigration authorities focus on public safety, while noting that limited information was available because the criminal investigation was ongoing.
What the victim’s mother said about the warning signs
Salazar’s mother, who asked not to be identified, said her daughter had already spoken with Batchigari about ending their relationship. She said the alleged motive may have been connected to the breakup, although investigators have not publicly confirmed that conclusion.
“He no longer had any business here or around the student body, especially as a threat,” Salazar’s mother said.
She also said her daughter’s death felt unfair and described Salazar as a bright light who was always willing to help others. The family is seeking justice while adapting to the loss of their oldest daughter and sister.
Salazar’s academic goals and family legacy
Julissa Salazar was the oldest of three sisters and a first-generation college student. Her mother said Salazar entered the University of Arizona on a scholarship at age 17 after graduating from high school in the top 5% of her class. She was preparing to begin her third year and studying psychology.
Salazar hoped to become a child psychologist. Her mother said she advocated for survivors, first-generation students and mental health. The university offered condolences to her family, friends and members of the campus community and said it was providing support and resources to those affected.
The extradition process and investigation
Batchigari remains in Germany while authorities address his potential extradition to the United States. The international process can involve coordination between German, U.S. and Arizona authorities, but the available information does not specify a timetable for his return.
The murder investigation is continuing, and the alleged breakup, the earlier assault case and the circumstances surrounding the flight remain areas of official inquiry. The charge is an allegation, and Batchigari is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | Julissa Salazar, 19, was found strangled in her Tucson apartment. |
| 2 | Varun Batchigari faces a first-degree murder charge and was arrested in Germany. |
| 3 | Batchigari entered the United States on an F-1 visa and was expelled from the university. |
| 4 | Salazar was a scholarship student, aspiring child psychologist and first-generation college student. |
Summary
The death of Julissa Salazar has prompted a murder investigation spanning Arizona and Germany. The case centers on allegations that Varun Batchigari killed Salazar after their relationship ended and then left the country. His arrest could allow the case to proceed in Arizona, but extradition and further investigative steps remain pending.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Julissa Salazar?
She was a 19-year-old University of Arizona psychology student, first-generation college student and aspiring child psychologist.
Who is accused in the case?
Varun Batchigari, 20, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with Salazar’s death.
Where was the suspect arrested?
Batchigari was detained in Berlin, Germany, after allegedly boarding a flight out of the United States.
What happens next?
Authorities are expected to address extradition while the murder investigation continues. No timetable for his return has been provided.
