Four individuals have been charged with the murder of Michelle Sadio, a 44-year-old mother-of-two, who tragically lost her life during a drive-by shooting outside a wake in Gifford Road, Brent, on December 14, 2024.
Michelle was among approximately 120 attendees leaving a service at the River of Life Elim Pentecostal Church when gunshots were fired at around 9:15 PM. Two other men, both in their 30s, were also injured in the attack, with one sustaining life-threatening injuries.
Arrests and Charges
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the following arrests and charges:
- Perry Allen-Thomas, 26, of Queenscourt, Wembley, was charged with murder and two counts of attempted murder on January 18. He is scheduled to appear at Willesden Magistrates Court.
- Amir Salem, 18, of Barnhill Road, Wembley, and Shaquille Sutherland, 24, of Havenwood, Wembley, were also charged with murder and two counts of attempted murder on January 16. Both appeared at Willesden Magistrates Court and were remanded in custody. Their next hearing is set for January 21 at the Old Bailey.
- Tahjin Sommersal, 18, of Lafone Avenue, Feltham, was charged earlier with murder, two counts of attempted murder, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He appeared at the Old Bailey on January 15.
Three additional suspects arrested in connection with the case have been bailed pending further enquiries.
Community Support Key to Investigation
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke praised the local community for their assistance, stating:
“This investigation is progressing at pace, and we are grateful for the continued support from the public. The CCTV footage shared with us has been invaluable in piecing together the events of that tragic night.”
Heartbreaking Tributes
Michelle’s devastated husband, Jean-Marie, expressed his grief:
“I am in shock. How could this have happened? No one has any respect for life anymore. I had to tell my children that this tragedy has taken their mother away.”
Friends and family remembered Michelle as a devoted mother who lit up the lives of those around her. One friend said:
“She adored her children and worked hard to give them a happy life. She didn’t deserve this. No one does.”
Witness Accounts
Witnesses described the chaos that unfolded as a black vehicle pulled up outside the church and opened fire. Seven shots were reportedly heard, sending mourners fleeing in panic. Pastor Lawrence Larbie confirmed that those injured were attending the wake of an elderly church member.
One neighbor recounted:
“People came out of the church and saw the bodies on the ground. There was crying and screaming. It was chaos.”
Police Appeal
Detectives continue to investigate and are urging anyone with information to come forward. The public can contact police via 101, quoting Operation Perimeter, or share tips anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
Michelle’s tragic death marks yet another instance of senseless violence, leaving a community in mourning and a family shattered.
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