A father of four was fatally shot during a home invasion in Vaughan, Ontario, early Sunday morning. York Regional Police reported that the incident occurred around 1 a.m. on August 31, at a residence near Andreeta Drive and Barons Street. The victim, identified as 46-year-old Abdul Aleem Farooqi, was found with life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to reports, Farooqi was killed in front of his children during the violent break-in. Family friend Ehsan Malik described the harrowing scene, stating, "[One of the alleged intruders] got the daughters at gunpoint. He brought them upstairs. That is when [Farooqi] saw that the other intruder was having a physical interaction. He was just shot, right there." Malik further explained that the intruder shot Farooqi twice while his daughters were present. He added, "All three of his daughters the intruder was bringing upstairs at gunpoint. They locked his son in a bedroom, and his wife was trying to run away."

Investigators believe that three suspects, dressed in dark clothing and with their faces covered, forced their way into the home before fleeing the scene. Police are urging neighbors to review their security camera footage and to reach out with any information that could assist in the investigation.

Friends of Farooqi described him as a dedicated husband and father who was actively involved in his community. One friend remarked, "He was a man of faith, charity, and community," noting that his tragic death has left family and friends in shock.

The York Regional Police are treating the incident as a targeted homicide but have not disclosed any potential motives. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information to contact the homicide unit or Crime Stoppers anonymously.