Aliya Fakhri, the sister of Bollywood actress Nargis Fakhri, has been charged with first-degree murder and arson following a deadly incident in Queens, New York.
She is accused of setting fire to the home of her ex-boyfriend, Edward Jacobs, and his friend, Anastasia Ettienne, which resulted in their deaths.
According to Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, Aliya allegedly arrived at Jacobs’ home on November 2 and made threats before setting the house on fire. Witnesses reported hearing her shout, “You’re all going to die today,” before flames engulfed the garage, trapping Jacobs and Ettienne inside. The two victims died from smoke inhalation and severe burns.
Aliya, aged 43, was indicted on November 27, facing multiple charges, including four counts of first-degree murder, four counts of second-degree murder, and charges of arson.
If convicted, she could face life imprisonment. She remains in custody, with her next court date set for December 9.
Jacobs, a 35-year-old plumber and father of three, had ended his relationship with Aliya a year prior, but sources indicate she struggled to accept the breakup.
Jacobs’ family stated that despite his attempts to distance himself, Aliya persisted in pursuing him.
Ettienne, who was visiting Jacobs at the time of the fire, was also killed. Jacobs’ mother clarified that their relationship was purely platonic.
Aliya’s mother has defended her daughter, expressing disbelief that Aliya would be capable of such an act. Nargis Fakhri, who gained fame through films like Rockstar and Madras Cafe, has yet to comment on the situation.
She is currently focusing on her upcoming Telugu film, Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1, alongside Pawan Kalyan.
