COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) – We’re learning more details about a University of Colorado Colorado Springs professor who was found dead in her home last week. We hear from Haleh Abghari’s friends about her passion for social justice and music and how her neighbor called 911.
11 News has confirmed from Colorado Springs police that Abghari’s car disappeared from the scene on August 7. Police have not yet confirmed if their investigation points to robbery or if her car has been recovered.
The woman, who lives next door to Abghari, told 11 News that she noticed her garage door was open and, worried, called 911.
“My first thought was that maybe she had forgotten to close it,” said Jordan Riley, a neighbor of Abghari.
Riley has lived next door to Abghari for more than seven years.
“Our interactions have all been very friendly. I just spoke to her about two weeks ago,” Riley said.
Nothing unusual happened until last week, when Riley called 911 to check on her neighbor.
“I was standing outside with the police when they came out and told me she wasn’t well. They didn’t give me any details, but they told me she wasn’t well. It’s just heartbreaking. She would never have wanted to hurt anyone. She was very kind, very calm, just being herself,” Riley said.
CSPD told 11 News that Abghari was found dead with at least one stab wound.
Abghari’s close friends and colleagues told 11 News that she was much more than just a professor and artist.
“She was truly a force of nature. She fought for what was right,” said Genia Olesnicky, a friend of Haleh Abghari.
“She was so remarkable. She met people and whether she was performing or just talking to someone in the store, she was so engaging and so alive,” said Laurie San Martin, another friend of Haleh Abghari.
Everyone affected by the crime told 11 News they wanted answers.
“I really hope they catch the perpetrator,” Martin said.
“I just hope and trust that they (the CSPD) will take care of this and find him as quickly as possible,” Riley said.
Police have not yet arrested a suspect in the homicide. They are asking anyone with information to come forward. You can call CSPD at 719-444-7000. You can also remain anonymous by calling Pike Peak Crime Stoppers at 719-634-STOP (7867) or 1-800-222-8477.
The Abghari family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with funeral expenses. If you would like to donate, please follow the link.
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