London, UK – A 46-year-old mother was fatally shot in a drive-by incident during a wake in north London, sparking a police manhunt and community alarm. The victim, identified as Michelle Sadio, was struck by gunfire outside a church in the Brent district, near the iconic Wembley Stadium, on Saturday night. The shooting also left two men injured and has prompted an intensive investigation by local authorities.
The Metropolitan Police have since launched a murder investigation but have yet to make any arrests in connection with the attack which occurred as mourners gathered on Gifford Road. One of the injured men remains in critical condition, while the other sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Superintendent Tony Josephs, from the North West Command Unit overseeing Brent, expressed his deep concern over the violence. “This is a truly shocking incident that has resulted in a tragic loss of life and significant distress to the community,” Josephs stated. He reassured the public that a team of experienced detectives is diligently working to piece together the events and track down those responsible.
The incident unfolded rapidly when a black car approached the group of mourners, abruptly stopped and occupants opened fire before speeding away. The chaotic scene was captured on a video that surfaced online showing the moment the vehicle halted in front of the crowd and the ensuing pandemonium as gunshots rang out.
Pastor Lawrence Larbie, of the River of Life Elim Pentecostal Church where the wake was held, described the terrifying moments when attendees rushed back into the sanctuary seeking refuge. “It was around 9:15 p.m., just before the wake was due to end, when people started running in, saying there had been a shooting,” Larbie recounted. The pastor expressed his devastation over the violence that marred what was meant to be a solemn occasion.
Tributes have poured in for Sadio, remembered by friends as a brilliant mother and a radiant presence in the lives of her family. Her children and other relatives are currently being supported by specialist officers.
The area around Gifford Road remained cordoned off as forensic teams combed the scene for evidence. Local residents expressed their shock and fear, with one noting the abnormality of such violence in their community. “We’ve lived here for 17 years and never seen anything like this,” said a neighbor, reflecting the sentiment of many.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting or the suspects to come forward. Superintendent Josephs emphasized the urgency of community cooperation: “A family has been left devastated. We need to work together to provide them with answers and bring those responsible to justice.”
The investigation continues as police appeal for witnesses who were in or around the area at the time of the shooting to assist them by sharing any relevant information. The community, meanwhile, remains on edge as they mourn the loss and grapple with the violent disruption to their peace.