Indian-origin woman found dead at home, manhunt on for partner

On Saturday, December 20, at about 6.30 am, police located the missing woman deceased inside a residence. The death was subsequently classified as a homicide.

The suspect has been identified as Abdul Ghafoori, 32, also of Toronto. He is wanted on a Canada-wide warrant on a charge of first-degree murder. Toronto Police have released an image of the suspect and appealed to the public for assistance in locating him.

“This is Toronto’s 40th homicide of 2025,” police said, adding that the investigation is being led by the Toronto Police Service Homicide and Missing Persons Unit.

Reacting to the incident, the High Commission of India in Ottawa said it was in touch with Canadian authorities and offering assistance to the victim’s family. “We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of an Indian-origin woman in Toronto. The High Commission is closely coordinating with local authorities and providing all possible support to the bereaved family,” the High Commission said in a statement.

Under Canadian law, first-degree murder is the most serious criminal offence. If convicted, the punishment carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment, with no possibility of parole for at least 25 years. Courts have no discretion to impose a lesser sentence for first-degree murder, which typically involves planning and deliberation or the killing of an intimate partner.

Police have urged anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Members of the public can contact Toronto Police at 416-808-7400. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers at 416-222-8477.