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Aliya Fakhri, sister of Bollywood actor Nargis Fakhri, has been charged with murder in the United States over a fire that claimed the lives of two individuals, including her former boyfriend, Edward Jacobs.
The incident occurred in Queens, New York City, on November 23, reports UNB.
Prosecutors allege that Fakhri, 43, set fire to a detached garage on Jacobs’ property after he refused her attempts to rekindle their relationship.
The blaze killed Jacobs, 35, and his friend Anastasia Ettienne, 33. Fakhri has pleaded not guilty to four counts of first-degree murder, four counts of second-degree murder, and arson.
She remains in custody at Rikers Island and faces a court appearance on 9 December.
Details
According to the Queens District Attorney’s office, Fakhri arrived at Jacobs’ home at approximately 6:20 a.m. on the day of the fire. Witnesses reportedly heard her shouting, "You’re all going to die today," before the fire erupted.
The fire spread rapidly, trapping Jacobs and Ettienne inside the building. Prosecutors stated that Ettienne tried to save Jacobs, who was asleep at the time, but both succumbed to smoke inhalation and severe burns. Officials have described the fire as a deliberate act of arson.
“This defendant maliciously ended the lives of two people by setting a fire that trapped a man and woman in a raging inferno,” said Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz in a statement.
Family Statements
Jacobs’ mother, Janet, revealed that her son had ended his relationship with Fakhri over a year ago and had been trying to distance himself from her persistent advances. "He’s been trying to tell her to leave him alone for the past year, but she wasn’t accepting the rejection," she told the New York Post.
Conversely, Fakhri’s mother expressed disbelief at the charges against her daughter. "I don’t think she would be killing someone," she told the New York Daily News. "She was a person who was caring for everybody."
Potential Consequences
If convicted of the most serious charges, Fakhri could face life imprisonment. Legal proceedings are ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for December.
This case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of Aliya Fakhri, whose sister Nargis Fakhri is a prominent figure in the Indian film industry. The actress has yet to comment publicly on the matter.