Four in Court Over Michelle Sadio’s Fatal Drive-By Shooting in Brent
Tragic Shooting Outside Brent Wake
Michelle Sadio, a 44-year-old mother of two, was tragically killed in a brutal drive-by shooting outside a wake on Gifford Road, Brent, on the evening of December 14, 2024. Around 120 people were leaving a service at the River of Life Elim Pentecostal Church when chaos erupted just after 9:15 PM.
Gunshots rang out, leaving Michelle dead and two men in their 30s seriously injured—one fighting for his life.
Four Charged, More Suspects Released on Bail
- Perry Allen-Thomas, 26, of Queenscourt, Wembley, faces murder and two attempted murder charges. He is due at Willesden Magistrates Court on January 18.
- Amir Salem, 18, from Barnhill Road, Wembley, and Shaquille Sutherland, 24, of Havenwood, Wembley, were charged with murder and two counts of attempted murder on January 16. They remain in custody with their next hearing set for January 21 at the Old Bailey.
- Tahjin Sommersal, 18, of Lafone Avenue, Feltham, was charged earlier with murder, attempted murder, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He appeared at the Old Bailey on January 15.
Three other suspects arrested have since been bailed as investigations continue.
Community Rally and Police Praise
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke hailed the local community’s vital support. He said, “This investigation is progressing at pace, thanks to the invaluable CCTV footage and public cooperation in piecing together what happened that tragic night.”
Heartbreaking Tributes from Family and Friends
Michelle’s husband, Jean-Marie, is devastated. He said, “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 described Michelle as a loving mum who “adored her children and worked tirelessly to give them a happy life. She didn’t deserve this. No one does.”
Witnesses Recall Night of Terror
Eyewitnesses recount a black vehicle pulling up outside the church before gunmen opened fire, sparking panic among mourners. Seven shots were reportedly fired as people fled in terror.
Pastor Lawrence Larbie confirmed those injured were attending the wake of an elderly church member. One neighbour said, “People came out of the church and saw bodies on the ground. There was crying and screaming. It was chaos.”
Police Appeal for Info
Detectives continue their hunt for answers. Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting Operation Perimeter, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
This senseless act has left a community grieving and a family shattered by grief.
