Tech professional from Microsoft dies on company premises in Silicon Valley, reigniting conversations about excessive work pressure in the tech industry

Pratik Pandey, a 35-year-old software engineer at Microsoft, was found dead on the company's Mountain View, California, campus in the early hours of August 20, 2025. The cause of his death is currently under investigation by the Santa Clara County medical examiner.

Pandey had a distinguished career in tech before joining Microsoft. Prior to his employment at the tech giant, he worked at Apple and Walmart. In recent years, he was employed by Microsoft in Silicon Valley, working specifically on the development of Microsoft Fabric, a data analytics platform integrating various Azure services.

Pandey specialized in big data analytics, modern frameworks, and frontend architecture at Microsoft. He reported up through Scott Guthrie, executive vice president of Cloud and AI at Microsoft.

The tragic death of Pratik Pandey has raised concerns about the pressures faced by tech industry employees. His family members have expressed concerns about his work schedule, suggesting that exhaustion and overwork may have played a role in his death.

Microsoft has carried out significant layoffs in recent years, contributing to job insecurity and increased work hours among employees. Additionally, AI startups in Silicon Valley are adopting the "996" work schedule, requiring employees to work from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week.

The 2025 Engineering Leadership Report found that 22% of developers are experiencing critical burnout, and nearly 40% are working longer hours due to increased workloads. Pratik Pandey's relatives have called on Microsoft and other tech firms to reassess the pressures they place on employees and to take stronger steps to support their well-being.

Pandey's uncle has urged companies to be more mindful of employees who frequently work late nights and long hours. The tragic death of Pratik Pandey serves as a reminder of the importance of balance, care, and humanity in the tech industry.

Before joining Microsoft in 2020, Pandey completed master's degrees at California State University, Long Beach, and San José State University. His contributions to the tech industry will not be forgotten.

In memory of Pratik Pandey, let us strive to create a more balanced and supportive work environment in the tech industry.

Tech professional from Microsoft dies on company premises in Silicon Valley, reigniting conversations about excessive work pressure in the tech industry