Aliya Fakhri Arrested for Double Homicide in Queens Fire Incident
Aliya Fakhri, sister of Bollywood actor Nargis Fakhri, has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of murder and arson following a devastating fire in Queens, New York, that claimed two lives. The 43-year-old resident of Parsons Boulevard is accused of deliberately setting fire to her ex-boyfriend’s home, resulting in the deaths of Edward Jacobs (35) and Anastasia Ettienne (33).
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the charges, which include four counts of first-degree murder, four counts of second-degree murder, and arson. If convicted, Aliya could face a life sentence. She is currently in custody and is due to appear in court on December 9.
The Tragic Incident
The fire occurred in a detached garage in the Jamaica neighborhood on November 2 at approximately 6:20 a.m. According to eyewitnesses, Aliya was heard shouting at Jacobs, “You’re all going to die today,” shortly before the fire erupted. The blaze quickly engulfed the two-story garage, leaving Jacobs and Ettienne trapped inside. Both victims succumbed to smoke inhalation and burns, as confirmed by the authorities.
District Attorney Katz detailed the tragic sequence of events: “A witness discovered the fire after hearing Aliya’s outburst. Ettienne attempted to save Jacobs, who was asleep upstairs, but neither could escape as the flames spread rapidly.”
A Troubled Relationship
Jacobs, a plumber and father of three, had ended his relationship with Aliya over a year ago. However, sources allege that she continued to pursue him despite his repeated attempts to distance himself. Jacobs’ mother told The New York Post that her son had made it clear he wanted no further contact with Aliya. She also clarified that Jacobs and Ettienne were friends, not romantically involved.
Denials and Defense
Aliya’s mother, Marie Fakhri, has denied the accusations against her daughter. Speaking to The New York Daily News, she expressed disbelief, stating, “I don’t think she would kill someone. She has always been a caring person.” Marie also mentioned Aliya’s struggle with opioid addiction following a dental mishap, which she believes may have impacted her behavior.
Spotlight on Nargis Fakhri
The case has drawn significant attention due to Aliya’s connection to her famous sister, Nargis Fakhri. Known for her roles in Bollywood films like Rockstar and Madras Cafe, Nargis has yet to issue a statement regarding the allegations against her sister. She is currently working on her next project, Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1, alongside Telugu superstar Pawan Kalyan.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to piece together the events leading up to the fire.
This harrowing case has also sparked discussions about domestic violence and the mental health challenges that can escalate to such devastating outcomes. With Aliya Fakhri facing the possibility of life in prison, her trial is expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
