Friend renews call for answers in Zafar homicide investigation

Friends say they also want people to remember the person behind the headlines.

“He was such a magnificent human being. I’ve never seen such behavior, such wisdom, such calm, such peace,” added Tecson. “That was the moment that my friendship with Ash was cemented.”

Mohammad “Ash” Zafar (Image Credit: KAMLOOPS RCMP)

The two remained close for years, despite living in different communities. Don says they saw each other just days before Zafar’s death – a memory that has stayed with him ever since.

“He visited me on December 27 and that was the last time… I didn’t know that was the last time I would see Ash,” stated Tecson. “I got a text message from my friend saying, ‘Hey, look at this link.’ Then when I looked at it, it was Ash on the news – that he had been murdered.”

In the days after the homicide, investigators urged people using men-seeking-men dating apps to stay vigilant, saying they couldn’t rule out the possibility others could be at risk. That message resonated through Kamloops’ 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

“The reason that we decided our response was necessary is because of the fact that it did seem to be targeting the [LGBTQIA+] community, specifically. Our biggest message all along has been, ‘If you do have anything that you think is helpful, please contact the RCMP,’” says Kirk Zimmer, treasurer for Kamloops Pride. “We are here to support the community as much as we can, and if that involves amplifying the message, we’re more than willing to help with that.”

CFJC Today reached out to the RCMP for an update, but in a brief statement, police would only say there are “no updates at this time.”

Don Tecson (Left) taking a picture with Mohammad “Ash” Zafar (Right) (Image Credit: Don Tecson)

For Zafar’s friends, that silence has only made the wait for answers more difficult.

“[I’m] longing for justice, I guess. Seven months… I mean, come on, with all the technology available. Don’t you have any leads yet?” reiterated Tecson.

As the investigation continues, Tecson says he hopes the public conversation doesn’t end with just questions of the case, but continues to remember the man he once called his closest friend.

“Please find whoever killed my friend, whoever murdered my friend, and bring him to justice and make him pay for what he did… to the most wonderful human being I’ve ever known. That is justice for me.” added Tecson, in his statement on what justice would look like to him.

Don Tecson visiting Mohammad “Ash” Zafar’s burial site (Image Credit: Don Tecson)

Anyone with information for police is asked to contact Kamloops RCMP at (250) 828-3000 and refer to file number 2026-388.

People who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 1-(800) 222-8477.

by Jeremy Russo

Friend renews call for answers in Zafar homicide investigation

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