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Two Indian nationals were killed in separate incidents in Toronto within six days, triggering concern among the Indian community. Police are investigating both cases, while Indian authorities have assured full support to the victims’ families.
Two Consecutive Incidents Spark Fear in the Indian Community
New Delhi: Two murders of Indian nationals in Toronto, Canada, within a span of just six days have created a climate of deep concern and sorrow, not only within the local Indian community but also in India.
These incidents have raised serious questions about the safety of Indians living abroad, particularly students. Police investigations are ongoing in both cases, although authorities have clarified that there is no connection between the two incidents.
Indian national Himanshi Khurana found murdered in Canada; Partner named as suspect
The first incident involves 30-year-old Himanshi Khurana, an Indian woman who lived in Toronto and was active as a digital content creator on social media. She was reported missing on the night of December 19, 2025.
Her body was found the following morning inside a residence in the area of Strachan Avenue and Wellington Street West. Toronto Police launched a homicide investigation into the case.
According to the police, the case may be related to intimate partner violence, as the victim and the suspect knew each other. A 32-year-old Toronto resident, Abdul Ghafoori, has been charged with first-degree murder in this case, and an arrest warrant has been issued for him across Canada. This incident marked Toronto's 40th homicide of 2025.
Indian national found murdered in Canada
The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed deep sorrow over the murder of Himanshi Khurana. The Consulate issued a statement extending condolences to the family and stated that they are in contact with the victim's family and are providing all possible assistance in coordination with Canadian authorities.
The second incident involves the shooting death of 20-year-old Indian student Shivank Awasthi. Shivank was pursuing a PhD in life sciences at the University of Toronto Scarborough campus. The incident occurred on December 23, 2025, in the afternoon near Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road, very close to the campus.
Upon receiving the information, police arrived at the scene, but Shivank had already died. The attackers fled before the police arrived. A temporary lockdown was also imposed on the campus after the incident for security reasons. This was Toronto's 41st homicide of 2025.
Toronto Police have clarified that there is no connection between the murders of Himanshi Khurana and Shivank Awasthi. These are two separate incidents and are being investigated independently. Police have appealed to the public to contact authorities immediately if they have any information related to these cases.
Following these incidents, concerns and discussions about the safety of Indians living abroad, especially students and women, have intensified.
