Outspoken critic of pro-Khalistan elements killed in LaSalle; police launch homicide probe as incident shocks Punjabi diaspora
CHANDIGARH: A 45-year-old YouTuber and social media influencer Nancy Grewal was fatally stabbed to death in LaSalle-a town in Essex County of Canada’s Ontario. As per the reports the incident reportedly took place on Tuesday, March 3, evening.
Originally from India’s Punjab state, Grewal had gained prominence on social media for her outspoken views on political and social issues affecting the Punjabi and Sikh diaspora. She was particularly known for her strong criticism of pro-Khalistan separatist groups, a stance that frequently triggered intense debates and backlash online.
According to local authorities, the stabbing occurred shortly before 9.30 pm in the 2400 block of Todd Lane, a residential neighbourhood in LaSalle in Essex County. Emergency responders from Essex-Windsor Emergency Medical Services rushed to the spot after receiving reports of a serious assault.
Grewal was found with critical injuries and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where she succumbed to her wounds shortly after arrival. LaSalle Police have registered the case as a homicide and launched an investigation. While officials described the attack as an isolated incident, they have not yet confirmed whether any suspects have been taken into custody.
Police sealed off the area for several hours as investigators combed through two nearby residences, a parking lot and a section of a wooded area for evidence.
Grewal’s family confirmed her death through an emotional message posted on her Instagram account.
“With a very heavy heart I share that my beloved sister Nancy Grewal passed away on 3 March 2026. I lost my sister, my strength and my forever friend. Rest in peace, my sister. You will always live in our hearts,” the message read.
The post drew an outpouring of condolences from followers and members of the Punjabi diaspora across Canada, India and other countries.
Born as Anita Agnihotri in Ludhiana, Punjab, Grewal completed her schooling at Satluj Public School after early education in Sirsa. She later pursued higher studies at a national college before moving to Canada.
After initially settling in Calgary, Alberta, she later shifted to the Windsor-LaSalle region in Ontario where she began building her presence on social media platforms.
Operating under the handle “Nancy Grewal Canada,” her YouTube channel featured more than 480 videos and had close to 9,000 subscribers. She regularly discussed issues related to the Punjabi diaspora, Sikh politics, India-Canada relations and community debates.
Her Instagram account, “realnancygrewal,” with around 12,000 followers, also showcased her commentary, personal reflections and occasional singing performances.
Grewal’s content often focused on issues such as the Khalistan movement, disputes within gurdwaras, attacks on Hindu temples abroad and political tensions between India and Canada. She had openly criticised pro-Khalistan figures and also questioned the policies of former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding separatist activism.
Her outspoken style earned her a dedicated following among supporters who viewed her as a fearless critic of extremism. At the same time, her remarks frequently attracted sharp criticism and online abuse from detractors who accused her of fuelling divisions within the community.
While investigators are yet to establish the motive behind the attack, Grewal’s killing has sparked wider concerns about the safety of social media influencers and activists who take strong public positions on political or community issues.
Observers note that outspoken digital creators, particularly those addressing sensitive religious or political topics, increasingly face threats, harassment and intimidation both online and offline.
