HERRICKS, NY – Nassau County detectives arrested Asif Qureshi, 53, in connection with the death of his estranged wife, Aleena Asif, 46, who was found unresponsive with facial burns inside her Herricks home on Oct. 17, 2025. The medical examiner ruled the death a criminal homicide caused by asphyxiation from an unknown “cyanide-like” chemical compound. Qureshi was arraigned on second-degree murder and ordered held without bail; prosecutors signaled they may seek a first-degree murder indictment.
Police say officers went to 143 Larch Drive for a welfare check around 3:50 p.m. and found the victim unconscious and not breathing. She was pronounced dead at the scene by a Nassau County Police medic. Further testing of the substance is pending with the medical examiner.
Reporting indicates Qureshi had been living in Queens and was arrested there later the same day. Prior domestic incidents were previously documented at the home, and the case came shortly after divorce papers were served. The couple’s three children are staying with relatives, according to multiple outlets.
Key Facts & Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Aleena Asif, 46, Herricks. |
| Suspect | Asif Qureshi, 53, of Queens (Bellerose). |
| Location | 143 Larch Drive, Herricks (welfare check). |
| Date/Time | Fri., Oct. 17, 2025, ~3:50 p.m. response; death ruled homicide. |
| Cause | Asphyxiation by unknown “cyanide-like” chemical; facial burns observed. |
| Charge | Second-degree murder; held without bail; prosecutors eye first-degree indictment. |
| Prior police history | Multiple prior domestic incidents reported at the residence (no orders of protection reported in coverage). |
| Next steps | Further lab analysis; grand jury action possible; tips requested via Crime Stoppers 1-800-244-TIPS. |
What In Known About the Sequence
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Oct. 17, 2025 | Police conduct welfare check; victim found; death ruled homicide by chemical asphyxiation. |
| Oct. 17, 2025 (later) | Qureshi arrested in Queens. |
| Oct. 24, 2025 | Public briefing and arraignment; held without bail; potential first-degree charge discussed. |
