Canadian authorities have launched a nationwide manhunt for Abdul Ghafoori, a 32-year-old Toronto resident, after naming him as the prime suspect in the homicide of Himanshi Khurana, a 30-year-old Indian-origin woman whose death investigators believe was the result of intimate partner violence.

The case has sent shockwaves through both Canada and India, prompting an emotional response from the Consulate General of India in Toronto, which has confirmed it is working closely with Canadian law enforcement to support Khurana’s family as the investigation unfolds.

Toronto Police have issued a Canada-wide warrant for first-degree murder against Ghafoori, a charge that—if proven with intent and premeditation—carries the possibility of life imprisonment without parole.

Discovery of the Crime: What Toronto Police Say

According to the Toronto Police Service, officers were first alerted late on the night of Friday, December 19, 2025, after receiving a report of a missing woman in the Strachan Avenue and Wellington Street West area of the city.

In an official statement, police said,

“On Friday, December 19, 2025, at approximately 10:41 pm, police responded to a call for a Missing Person in the Strachan Avenue and Wellington Street West area.”

Following the report, officers launched an overnight search operation. The effort ended tragically in the early hours of the next day.

“On Saturday, December 20, 2025, at approximately 6:30 am, officers located the missing female deceased inside a residence,” police said, confirming that the death was being treated as a homicide.

The victim was later formally identified as Himanshi Khurana, a resident of Toronto and an Indian national.

Homicide Unit Takes Over Investigation

After confirming the nature of the death, Toronto Police transferred the case to their Homicide Unit, which is now leading the investigation. Authorities have stated that no further details about the cause of death have been released at this stage, as the probe remains active.

Police also confirmed that the killing marks Toronto’s 40th homicide of 2025, underscoring the gravity of the case within the city’s broader crime statistics.

Who Was Himanshi Khurana?

Himanshi Khurana was a 30-year-old Indian-origin woman living in Toronto. Police confirmed she was a local resident at the time of her death.

Images released by authorities matched photographs shared on a social media profile bearing the same name, where Khurana described herself as a Toronto-based digital creator. Her online presence suggested a young professional building a life abroad—making the circumstances of her death all the more devastating for those who knew her.

Relationship Between Victim and Suspect

Investigators have made it clear that the victim and the suspect were known to each other, a detail that has become central to the case.

According to Toronto Police and Canadian media reports, Khurana and Ghafoori were involved in an intimate partner relationship.

A police spokesperson told CP24:

“They were in an intimate partner relationship.”

This confirmation has led authorities to classify the case as a suspected incident of intimate partner violence, a form of domestic violence that continues to be a serious concern across Canada.

Case Classified as Intimate Partner Violence

Canadian police have emphasized that the nature of the relationship between Khurana and Ghafoori is a key focus of the investigation.

According to CBC News, investigators believe the homicide fits the pattern of intimate partner violence, a conclusion supported by preliminary findings and the relationship history between the victim and the suspect.

Such cases often involve complex dynamics and heightened risks, which police say makes public cooperation especially critical in locating the suspect quickly.

Who Is Abdul Ghafoori?

Abdul Ghafoori, 32, is also a resident of Toronto, according to police records. He has been formally named as the primary suspect in the murder of Himanshi Khurana.

Toronto Police have issued a Canada-wide arrest warrant charging Ghafoori with first-degree murder, the most serious homicide charge under Canadian law.

While authorities have not released information about his current whereabouts, they have confirmed that he is being actively sought across the country.

Police Appeal for Public Assistance

As part of their efforts to locate Ghafoori, police have released his image to the public and are urging anyone with information to come forward immediately.

A police spokesperson said:

“We have released an image of the suspect, and that is out there, and we’re appealing to the public, if anybody would happen to know where this man is to please call police.”

Investigators have not disclosed whether they believe Ghafoori remains in the Toronto area or may have fled elsewhere in Canada.

Indian Consulate Reacts With Shock and Condolences

The killing has drawn a strong response from India’s diplomatic mission in Canada.

In a statement posted on X, the Consulate General of India in Toronto said it was

“deeply saddened and shocked by the murder of Ms. Himanshi Khurana, a young Indian national, in Toronto.”

The consulate extended its

“deepest condolences to her bereaved family during this moment of profound grief.”

Officials also confirmed that they have been closely monitoring the case and are working alongside Canadian authorities.

“The Consulate has been in close touch on the matter over the past few days, and all possible assistance is being extended to the family in close coordination with local authorities,” the statement added.

Diplomatic Support for the Family

Consular officials have emphasized their commitment to ensuring that Khurana’s family receives all necessary assistance, including coordination with law enforcement and guidance on legal and procedural matters in Canada.

Such involvement is standard in cases involving the death of an Indian national abroad, but the consulate’s statement reflects the heightened concern surrounding the violent nature of the crime.

Ongoing Investigation and Manhunt

Toronto Police have reiterated that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Officers continue to gather evidence, interview potential witnesses, and track leads that could result in Ghafoori’s arrest.

Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges or further disclosures once the suspect is apprehended.

A Case That Resonates Across Borders

The murder of Himanshi Khurana has resonated deeply with Indian communities in Canada and abroad, particularly due to its classification as suspected intimate partner violence.

Advocates and community members have highlighted the case as a reminder of the risks faced by women in abusive relationships, regardless of geography, immigration status, or professional background.

What Happens Next?

For now, the focus remains on locating and arresting Abdul Ghafoori. Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information that could assist in the manhunt.

Anyone with information related to the case has been asked to contact Toronto Police Service immediately.

As the investigation continues, authorities say more details will be released when appropriate, and justice for Himanshi Khurana remains their primary objective.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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