A shocking murder case from Long Island, New York, has left the Indian community in grief. Aleena Asif, an Indian-origin woman, was brutally killed by her estranged husband, Asif Qureshi, a U.S. citizen from Pakistan.
Murder after divorce rejection
The tragedy unfolded after Aleena served Qureshi with divorce papers. He reportedly rejected them and began stalking her, frequently showing up at her home despite repeated police complaints.
CCTV captures horrific attack
CCTV footage revealed Qureshi waiting outside Aleena’s house before ambushing her as she returned from dropping their seven-year-old daughter at school. The footage showed a premeditated and targeted attack.
Chemical compound used in killing
According to the Nassau County Police, Qureshi used a cyanide-like chemical compound that caused asphyxiation and left severe burns on Aleena’s face. After attacking her, he fled the scene on an e-bike.
Victim had sought police help repeatedly
Aleena, an accountant from Mumbai, had contacted police four times earlier, reporting threats and harassment from Qureshi. She once told authorities that he had threatened to make her swallow bleach during a marital dispute.
Legal system under scrutiny
Despite clear warnings and a history of threats, Aleena received no effective protection. After his arrest, Qureshi pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder, with his lawyer defending him as a “good U.S. citizen” and provider.
Systemic failure and public outrage
The case has sparked outrage over systemic negligence and the failure of law enforcement to protect victims of domestic violence, particularly among immigrant communities in the U.S.
