An 18-year-old teenager in the UK has been charged with the murder of a mother who was shot in a drive-by shooting outside a wake just days before Christmas.
Tahjin Sommersal, from Feltham, was arrested last Wednesday in connection with the death of 44-year-old Michelle Sadio, who was killed on December 14.
Sadio, a mother from Walthamstow in East London, was fatally shot when a car approached a church near Wembley Stadium in northwest London and opened fire on a group of mourners gathered outside. Two men in their 30s were also injured during the incident.
On Saturday, Sommersal was charged with murder, two counts of attempted murder, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He was remanded in custody and appeared at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
Sommersal is scheduled to appear again at the Old Bailey this afternoon. Additionally, the Metropolitan Police arrested five other men at various addresses in Brent and Hounslow in connection with the murder. The suspects, aged 18, 21, 24, and 33, are currently in custody.
Michelle’s family has been notified and is receiving support from specialist officers during this difficult time.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke, who is leading the investigation, described the incident as “a senseless act of violence that resulted in an innocent woman being killed.” He added that the family continues to mourn, and the police are determined to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Michelle Sadio was attending a nine-night ceremony on December 14 to celebrate the life of 80-year-old Dinah Boateng, the mother of one of her school friends. The event, held at the River of Life Elim Pentecostal Church in Harlesden, was organized to commemorate the ninth day since Mrs. Boateng’s death on December 5. Tragically, Sadio was shot just before 9:15 pm after stepping outside for a breath of fresh air.
