New Delhi: In a shocking case that has rocked both Bollywood and New York, Aliya Fakhri, sister of Bollywood actress Nargis Fakhri, has been arrested in connection with a devastating fire that claimed the lives of her ex-boyfriend, Edward Jacobs, and his friend, Anastasia Star Ettienne, in Queens, New York. Authorities have charged Aliya with arson and double murder after she allegedly set a two-story garage ablaze, resulting in the victims’ deaths from smoke inhalation and thermal injuries.
Details of the Fatal Fire: Abuse, Revenge, and Tragedy
The fire, described as a “raging inferno” by Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, unfolded in a small garage that quickly became a death trap for Jacobs and Ettienne. “This defendant maliciously ended the lives of two people by setting a fire,” Katz stated, adding that the victims were unable to escape the flames. Aliya has been denied bail as the investigation intensifies.
Witnesses painted a disturbing picture of Aliya’s relationship with Edward Jacobs, alleging it was fraught with abuse and threats. A witness who narrowly escaped the fire revealed a chilling detail: “She had told everyone before that she was going to burn his house down and kill him. We laughed it off.”
The witness also shared a heroic yet tragic moment when Anastasia Ettienne, after initially escaping the fire, re-entered the burning structure in a bid to save Jacobs. Both victims succumbed to the blaze.
Family Reactions: A Mother’s Defense and a Sister’s Silence
While Nargis Fakhri has remained silent on the arrest, her mother has come forward in Aliya’s defense, expressing disbelief at the charges. “I don’t think she would be killing someone,” she said. “She was a person who cared for everybody. She tried to help everybody.”
Jacobs’ mother, however, revealed that Aliya had been pursuing her son despite their breakup a year prior to the incident. Media reports have clarified that Jacobs and Ettienne were merely friends, debunking rumors of a romantic relationship.
From Stardom to Scandal: The Impact on Nargis Fakhri
Nargis Fakhri, celebrated for her breakout role in Rockstar (2011) alongside Ranbir Kapoor, finds herself amidst a media storm. Currently filming the final schedule of Housefull 5, which features a star-studded cast including Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, and Tiger Shroff, she has yet to issue any statement on her sister’s legal troubles.
A Community Shocked and Searching for Justice
The fire and subsequent allegations have left the Queens community reeling. As new details emerge, the case underscores the lethal consequences of abusive relationships and raises concerns about addressing threats of violence more seriously.
Aliya Fakhri’s next court appearance is eagerly anticipated as prosecutors and defense attorneys prepare to battle over a case that blends elements of love, betrayal, and unspeakable tragedy.
