Who is Atharva Vyas? Indian National Arrested in Texas for Alleged Assault on Woman and 3-Year-Old Child

A 24-year-old Indian citizen, Atharva Vyas, has been taken into custody in Texas following allegations of a violent incident involving a woman and her three-year-old daughter. The case has gained significant attention in the United States after updates from law enforcement and immigration authorities.

The alleged incident occurred on April 18 at Espada Park in San Antonio. According to police reports referenced by local media outlets, Vyas is accused of attacking a 27-year-old woman, identified as Gabriella Perez, while she was accompanied by her young child. Authorities claim he pulled the woman by her hair, causing her to fall and lose grip of the child.

Investigators further allege that the suspect then harmed the toddler, biting her and inflicting serious injuries. Reports indicate that the child suffered facial wounds and lost two teeth during the attack. A witness at the scene intervened and managed to restrain Vyas until officers arrived.

Both victims received medical attention following the incident. Officials have stated that the motive behind the alleged assault remains unknown, and the investigation is still ongoing.

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement confirmed that it has issued a detainer request for Vyas. This means local authorities have been asked to transfer him to federal custody after the completion of criminal proceedings.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, Vyas entered the United States on a student visa in 2023. Officials reported that his visa was revoked in 2025 due to a previous matter, after which he allegedly stayed in the country without legal authorization. Authorities have referred to him as an “illegal alien”, a term used in official immigration enforcement contexts.

Vyas remains in custody in Texas and is facing multiple charges, including injury to a child and assault causing bodily harm.