Teen Law Student Shot Dead in Botched Blackburn Hit
Aya Hachem, 19, a promising law student, was fatally shot while walking along King Street, Blackburn, on Sunday, May 17, 2020. The tragedy unfolded at 3pm as she went about her daily business, simply shopping for food for her family.
Hitman’s Bullets Miss Target, Kill Innocent Aya
Zamir Raja, hired as a hitman and seated in the back of a Toyota Avensis, fired two shots from the car driven by Anthony Ennis. The car passed by Quickshine Tyres, aiming at owner Pachah Khan amid a bitter feud with rival Feroz Suleman, proprietor of RI Tyres.
The first bullet smashed a window at Quickshine Tyres. The second tragically struck Aya, who had no ties to the feud or the businesses involved.
Mastermind and Accomplices Brought to Justice
Eight people were sentenced in August 2021 for roles in the shooting. Now, another man connected to the crime has been convicted.
- Louis Otway, 42, from Manchester, was found guilty of organising the shooting. Acting as the crucial link between Blackburn criminal Ayaz Hussain and the gunman and driver, Otway will be sentenced on May 5.
- Suhayl Suleman, 38, was cleared of all charges.
Family and Police Speak Out After Justice Served
“Aya was a young woman whose life – so full of promise – was brutally and tragically cut short,” said Detective Inspector Ian Moore. “Lewis Otway played a key role in organising the hit that claimed her life. This conviction, along with those from last year, gives Aya’s family the justice they deserve.”
Aya’s family said: “We thank God for the justice served today. To our beautiful angel in heaven, you remain forever in our hearts. Despite struggles, you contributed to your community and charity work while studying to be a barrister. Your name is now on the Law Society’s roll of solicitors.”
Previous Sentences for Blackburn Shooting Plot Revealed
- Feroz Suleman, 40 – 34 years for orchestrating the hit.
- Zamir Raja, 33 – 34 years for sourcing the firearm and shooting.
- Anthony Ennis, 31 – 33 years as the getaway driver.
- Ayaz Hussain, 35 – 32 years for organising and linking Manchester criminals with Blackburn crew.
- Abubakr Satia, 32 – 28 years for sourcing the car and attempting to destroy evidence.
- Kashif Manzoor, 26 – 27 years for maintaining the vehicle used.
- Uthman Satia, 29 – 28 years for transporting the gang members.
- Judy Chapman, 26 – Manslaughter conviction but acquitted of murder and attempted murder charges.
