The tech world is no stranger to long hours, late nights, and high-pressure projects—but the recent death of a Microsoft engineer in Mountain View, California, has once again highlighted the toll that overworking can take.
Friends, family, and community members are raising concerns about the relentless pace expected in Silicon Valley workplaces.
The Sudden Loss of Pratik Pandey
Pratik Pandey, 35, was discovered face-down on the Microsoft campus in the early hours of August 20.
According to The Palo Alto Daily Post, he had entered the office shortly before 8pm the previous evening.
An initial report from the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner indicated that he suffered a heart attack.
Family Remembers a Dedicated Engineer
Pandey’s uncle, Manoj Pandey, spoke warmly of his nephew, describing him as a bright and hardworking individual who often stayed late at work.
He stressed the urgent need for tech companies to take employee wellbeing seriously.
“Companies need to be aware of the dangers of overworking and help employees manage stress and pressure,” Manoj told the Daily Post.
“That awareness could probably save a life.
Losing a loved one is an unimaginable pain.”
Stress Without Warning
Community leader Satish Chandra shared that Pratik had been feeling stressed leading up to his death, though he had no known health conditions.
Authorities confirmed that his passing is not being treated as suspicious.
A Mountain View Police spokesperson said there was no criminal investigation, and Bloomberg reported that officers found no evidence of foul play.
A Career Dedicated to Innovation
Pratik Pandey had an impressive tech career.
He graduated from San Jose State University and had. worked at Apple, Illumina, and Walmart Labs before joining Microsoft in 2020.
At Microsoft, he contributed to Fabric, an AI-powered analytics platform designed to manage complex data streams.
Remembering a Joyful Soul
In an announcement for a viewing service, Pratik was described as “a great son and friend” with a “joyful soul and a radiant smile.”
The tribute noted his love for soccer and the warmth he brought to friends and family.
Microsoft Responds Quietly
When approached for comment, Microsoft told the Daily Mail that they did not have any information to share regarding his death.