The Indian community in Canada is in shock following the tragic death of 30-year-old Himanshi Khurana, an Indian national who was found murdered in a downtown Toronto residence. Toronto Police have classified the death as a homicide and believe the incident is a case of intimate partner violence.
The Timeline of Events
The investigation began late on Friday, December 19, 2025, when police received a report of a missing person in the area of Strachan Avenue and Wellington Street West. Following an overnight search, officers discovered Khurana’s body inside a residence at approximately 6:30 a.m. the following morning.
While the specific cause of death has not been publicly released, the Toronto Police Service Homicide and Missing Persons Unit immediately took over the case, marking it as the city's 40th homicide of the year.
Nationwide Manhunt for Suspect
A Canada-wide arrest warrant has been issued for Abdul Ghafoori, 32, of Toronto. He is wanted for first-degree murder. Police have confirmed that Ghafoori and Khurana were "known to each other" and were in an intimate relationship.
Ghafoori is described as a resident of Toronto, and investigators have released his photograph to the public, urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the authorities immediately.
Official Response and Support
The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed "deep shock and sorrow" over the incident. In a statement released on Wednesday, the Consulate noted:
"We are deeply saddened and shocked by the murder of Ms. Himanshi Khurana, a young Indian national, in Toronto. We extend our deepest condolences to her bereaved family during this moment of profound grief."
The Consulate further confirmed they are in close coordination with Canadian authorities and are providing all possible assistance to the victim's family to navigate the legal and logistical hurdles following the tragedy.
A Growing Concern
The case has reignited discussions regarding the safety of Indian nationals abroad and the rising instances of intimate partner violence. Under Canadian law, a first-degree murder conviction carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment with no possibility of parole for at least 25 years.
Police Contact Information: Anyone with information is asked to contact Toronto Police at 416-808-7400 or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 416-222-8477.
