Bandna Bhatti Paralyzed After Tragic Fraternity House Fall Weeks Before Graduation

A 21-year-old UC Berkeley student, Bandna Bhatti, suffered a life-changing accident just three weeks before her graduation.

Bandna, a Data Science major, was paralyzed from the waist down after falling from an external metal staircase at the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity house on April 19.

The fall occurred around 1 p.m. during Cal Day, a public open house for incoming freshmen and families. Bandna slipped and fell approximately 12 feet, striking her head before landing in a narrow passageway outside the frat house.

According to her family, she lay on the ground for about 15 minutes before being found by friends. They carried her inside the house, but were reportedly told to leave by others present. Not realizing the severity of her injuries, her friends brought her back to her nearby apartment. It was not until around 8 p.m.—seven hours later—that someone called 911.

By then, Bandna had already suffered a spinal fracture that left her paralyzed. Doctors also found a torn dura (causing spinal fluid leakage), a fractured scapula, and a brain hematoma. She is currently hospitalized and facing an uncertain future.

Her sister, Sonya Bhatti, launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover Bandna’s growing medical expenses. “She was just three weeks from graduation. She worked so hard, and now our world is upside down,” Sonya wrote. “We received the kind of call no family ever wants to get.”

UC Berkeley acknowledged the incident and confirmed there is an active police investigation. “Our thoughts are with the student and their family. We are offering support,” the university said in a statement.

The national Phi Kappa Tau fraternity also responded: “The health, safety, and well-being of all individuals in our community remain our highest priority.”

Friends of Bandna have since organized a fundraiser by running a half-marathon, pledging $5 per mile. They described her as brilliant, kind, and determined.

Her mother remains hopeful and strong. “She will walk,” she said. “I’ll do whatever it takes.”