Aliya Fakhri, sister of Bollywood actress Nargis Fakhri, has been arrested in connection with the death of her former boyfriend and his friend following a fire in Queens, New York. The incident, which occurred on November 2, led to the tragic deaths of 35-year-old Edward Jacobs and 33-year-old Anastasia Ettienne.
According to Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, Aliya has been indicted on charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and arson. If convicted on the most severe charges, Aliya could face a life sentence. She was arrested on November 27 and is scheduled to appear in court again on December 9.
Authorities stated that Aliya arrived at Jacobs’ two-story detached garage at approximately 6:20 a.m. and shouted threats at Jacobs before the fire started. A witness who was inside the property discovered the building was on fire shortly afterward. Ettienne attempted to save Jacobs but was unable to escape, and both victims succumbed to smoke inhalation and burns.
Jacobs, a plumber and father of three, had reportedly ended his relationship with Aliya a year before the incident. Jacobs’ mother informed The New York Post that her son had repeatedly tried to distance himself from Aliya, who refused to accept the rejection.
Aliya’s mother has publicly denied the allegations, expressing disbelief that her daughter would be involved in such an act. She told the New York Daily News that Aliya was a caring individual and would never commit such an act.
Nargis Fakhri, who rose to fame with her debut in 'Rockstar' (2011) opposite Ranbir Kapoor, has also appeared in other films like 'Madras Cafe' (2013) and 'Housefull 3' (2016). She is set to star in the Telugu film 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1' alongside Pawan Kalyan.