On a quiet October morning in Herricks, Long Island, a mother of three was slain with cyanide in her home in what authorities are calling a calculated and chilling act of domestic violence, as the New York Post reports.

Aleena Asif, 46, was allegedly murdered with a cyanide-like substance by her estranged husband, Asif Qureshi, 53, after being served with divorce papers eight days prior, prompting police to charge him with second-degree murder and pursue an upgraded charge.

The incident unfolded on Oct. 17, shortly after Aleena returned home from dropping off her youngest daughter, age seven, at school. Detectives say her estranged husband had been stalking her for days and was waiting nearby to strike. Police believe Qureshi entered the residence immediately after her return and fatally attacked her with a toxic chemical.

Victim found unconscious with severe chemical burns

Law enforcement officers were dispatched to the Herricks' residence after Aleena’s 18-year-old daughter called for a wellness check. Her mother had not shown up to retrieve her youngest sister at school, raising alarms. Officers found Aleena unconscious and not breathing, with extensive burns on her face, consistent with chemical exposure.

A subsequent autopsy by the medical examiner confirmed the cause of death as asphyxiation due to contact with an unidentified chemical agent. Investigators later described the substance used as "cyanide-like," though the precise compound has not yet been publicly identified.

Nassau County Detective Capt. Stephen Fitzpatrick said the attack appeared premeditated. “On the 17th, we have him showing up, waiting for the right opportunity, waiting for his wife to drop off the kids at school, and then assaulting her and killing her,” he told reporters.

History of domestic disputes at home

Qureshi, who had been living in Queens apart from his family, had received divorce papers at his Bellrose address on Oct. 9. Officials say he refused to accept them. The couple had a strained marital history, cycling between attempts at reconciliation and separation since 2023, when Aleena first requested a divorce. They briefly reconciled in 2024, but she filed to dissolve the marriage again this year.

The Herricks home had been the scene of five prior domestic incidents attended by police, four involving Aleena and another involving their eldest daughter. Details of one of Qureshi's past cases remain sealed, but officers indicated most previous issues stemmed from financial disagreements.

In a disturbing report referenced by investigators, Qureshi allegedly once threatened Aleena by saying he would "make [her] swallow bleach." Despite these threats, law enforcement confirmed no orders of protection were ever issued on Aleena's behalf.

Suspect found hours after killing

Police tracked Qureshi down later the same afternoon, arresting him at a different residence in Bellrose, Queens. He was taken into custody without resistance and charged with second-degree murder that evening. A Nassau County judge subsequently ordered that he be held without bail.

The couple had three children -- an 18-year-old daughter, a 14-year-old son, and the seven-year-old daughter who was at school at the time of the attack. The children are now in the care of extended family members. Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges related to child endangerment or stalking are being considered at this time.

Qureshi, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Pakistan, remains in custody pending further court proceedings. Prosecutors have announced their intent to seek an upgraded charge of first-degree murder, citing premeditation and the particularly cruel method of homicide.

Lessons to learn

From the tragic circumstances of this case, there are several important takeaways about personal safety and the complexities of domestic violence:

1. Take threats seriously and report them early. When someone makes a violent threat -- even if it sounds extreme or implausible -- it's important to report it to authorities. In Aleena's case, prior threats involving poisonous substances were documented. Such red flags can sometimes lead to restraining orders or additional legal protections.

2. Safety planning is essential during separation. The risk of violence often increases when someone leaves an abusive or controlling relationship. Aleena had recently filed for divorce, and experts note that this is when many domestic violence homicides occur. Creating a support system and notifying local police of concerns can help increase safety during transitional periods.

3. Victims are never to blame. No matter what steps someone takes to protect themselves, crimes can still happen. Aleena had tried to separate from her husband multiple times and sought legal avenues, yet still fell victim. It’s crucial for communities to support survivors and advocate for better systems to detect and deter violence before it escalates.

Why this story matters

This case is a painful reminder of the dangers that can exist within domestic relationships, particularly during times of separation and legal disputes. It underscores the importance of preventive action and the need for a stronger legal response to escalating threats.

Awareness of these tragedies is necessary to push for change and ensure others receive help before it’s too late.