Lebanese-born 19-year old Aya Hachem was shot by one of many bullets fired from a car in a drive-by shooting in Blackburn, Lancashire while walking to get groceries on Sunday, May 17th. She was rushed to the hospital where she eventually died from a wound to the chest.
Police believe that she was not the intended target of the shooting, which took place in broad daylight.
The car in question had several passengers at the time of the shooting, reported to possibly be a metallic green Toyota Avensis.
Having launched an investigation, police have already arrested six men for suspicion of her murder.
Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods has appealed to witnesses and asked family and friends of the suspected murderers to “search their conscience and come forward” with any information they may have regarding the shooting of the “completely innocent person, who was a wonderful individual.”
She was a second-year student at Salford University, an aspiring student of international law.
Her father Ismail Hachem paid tribute to Aya on Facebook, mourning his “strong daughter.” According to the post, she is the second child of four.
“Aya, one of our own, lost her life in a horrific senseless attack, randomly caught up in a shooting outside Lidl, King Street, Blackburn as she walked past at around 3pm on Sunday,” wrote Blackburn Asylum and Refugee Community.
“Our hearts and prayers are with them at this painful time, especially during this holy month of Ramadam when Aya and her family were fasting.”
This is an ongoing investigation.
