Political leaders and close friends in Ontario report that a man who lost his life during a home invasion in Vaughan over the weekend was shot in front of his children.
Abdul Aleem Farooqi, 46, a devoted husband and father of four, was known for his faith, charity, and community spirit, according to those who knew him. One friend described him as “noble.”
According to York Regional Police, the home invasion was targeted; however, they have not shared many details about what happened and have not confirmed if there was a shooting.
In a news release on Sunday, police stated they responded to a call about a home invasion at a residence near Andreeta Drive and Barons Street just before 1 a. m. When officers arrived, they found a man with serious injuries. He was declared dead at the scene. The chief coroner’s officer later identified the victim.
Authorities are searching for at least three suspects described as wearing dark clothing and face coverings.
A York Regional Police vehicle is shown here at the scene of a home invasion on the weekend. (Spencer Gallichan-Lowe/ )
Friends of Farooqi expressed disbelief over his death; both individuals who spoke to CBC Toronto said that family members informed them he was shot in front of his children.
Ehsan Malik, a close friend who had known Farooqi for around 15 years, said he feels “devastated” and wishes this news were just a “nightmare” from which he could wake up. He mentioned that Farooqi often went by Aleem.
“Aleem was like a brother to me. He wasn’t my blood brother but if I faced an issue, I’d turn to Aleem before my real brother,” Malik shared.
“Charity ran through his veins. He constantly looked for ways to help others or contribute to the community.”
Wasib Dheendsa, another family friend, mentioned that Farooqi worked for an air duct cleaning company called Unique Providers and had three daughters along with one son. He highlighted Farooqi’s special talent for treating friends like family while motivating people to be their best selves.
“Without any doubt in my mind, he truly exemplified nobility,” Dheendsa said. “He had very strong faith.”
Left to right, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Aleem Farooqi, Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce. Farooqi posted this photo on Facebook on Dec. 2, 2024, saying he was grateful to Ford for supporting small business owners and honoured to have discussed improving air quality in Ontario schools with Ford and Lecce. (Aleem Farooqi/Facebook)
Ontario Premier Doug Ford spoke at an unrelated news conference in Kitchener on Tuesday and told reporters that Farooqi was his friend and that intruders broke into his house late at night.
Ford stated that Farooqi was shot dead right in front of his kids.
“Just think about how traumatizing this will be for those kids throughout their lives,” Ford remarked.
“I always say this regarding those protecting their homes:‘I’d rather be judged by 12 than carried by six.’ Sadly my friend Aleem will be carried by six because he tried defending his family,” Ford added.
Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca, through statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), expressed hearing from victim’s loved ones on Tuesday.
“The despicable criminals responsible for killing this man, right before his wife and kids within their own home must be apprehended swiftly as well as face severe consequences,” Del Duca asserted through the statement.
A candlelight vigil honoring Abdul Aleem Farooqi brought together many people in Vaughan on Monday night. (Submitted by Wasib Dheendsa)
The murder also caught attention from Stephen Lecce , MPP representing King-Vaughan , alongside Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria.
In post made via X formerly Twitter , Lecce stated Monday ,< I am so sorry about your loss. This is unimaginable sorrow affecting both the family & neighbours alike. My heartfelt condolences go out towards them all. I met Abdul over these past few years & will remember him fondly as dedicated family man & hardworking leader.”
Mourners attended another post via X stating on Tuesday: “This situation is incredibly heartbreaking & infuriating; No parent should ever endure someone threatening their child inside their own house.” said Sarkaria.
The memorial near Farooqi’s residence continues growing steadily. Hundreds gathered unexpectedly for vigil held Monday evening remembering him. Police plan to give an update soon Wednesday.
