A terrifying and heartbreaking incident unfolded in Queens earlier this month when a woman, consumed with rage, allegedly set fire to a garage, killing her ex-boyfriend and his friend who were trapped inside. The tragic event has left two families mourning and a community in shock.
Edward Jacobs, 35, a father of three, and his friend Anastasia Ettienne, 33, were inside a two-story detached garage in Jamaica when the fire broke out. Prosecutors say Aliya Fakhri, 43, Jacobs’ ex-girlfriend, arrived at the property early on the morning of November 2 and shouted a chilling threat: “You’re all going to die today.” Moments later, she allegedly started the fire near the garage entrance, cutting off any chance of escape.
The flames quickly consumed the structure, trapping Edward and Anastasia inside. Anastasia, realizing the danger, tried to wake Edward, who was asleep upstairs, but neither could make it out in time. The intense smoke and flames left them with no way to escape, and both tragically lost their lives to smoke inhalation and severe burns.
Edward’s heartbroken mother shared that her son had broken up with Fakhri about a year ago, but she had trouble accepting it. “He kept telling her to leave him alone, but she wouldn’t let go,” she said. “He just wanted to move on.”
Edward, a plumber, had been working on turning the garage into an apartment. His mother emphasized that he and Anastasia were close friends, not romantically involved. Edward’s death has left his three young sons—11-year-old twins and a 9-year-old—without their father. “He was such a giving person,” his mother said tearfully. “If you needed help, he’d find a way to help you, no matter what.”
Prosecutors have charged Fakhri with multiple counts of first- and second-degree murder, as well as arson. If convicted, she could face life in prison. For now, she remains in custody, awaiting her next court appearance in December.
The Queens District Attorney described the case as a cruel and deliberate act. “This was a devastating loss of two lives caused by a senseless and malicious act,” the DA said, extending condolences to the families of Edward and Anastasia.
As the investigation continues, the community remembers Edward and Anastasia for the kind and caring individuals they were, while hoping for justice in the days ahead.
