Two individuals have been sentenced to life in prison following the fatal shooting of a mother of two at a gathering to commemorate a wake. Perry Allen-Thomas received a minimum term of 38 years, while Amir Salem was given 26 years at the Old Bailey for the murder of Michelle Sadio, aged 44.
The incident took place outside the River of Life Pentecostal Church in Willesden, north London, on December 14, 2024. After a trial at the Old Bailey, Allen-Thomas, aged 27, and Salem, aged 20, were convicted of murder and two counts of attempted murder.
During the sentencing at the Old Bailey, Jean-Marie Sadio, the victim’s husband who worked with her at the same legal firm, described her as a crucial figure in their lives.
Mrs. Justice McGowan, while handing down the life sentences, remarked that what started as a joyful family event turned into a tragic occurrence. She emphasized that the shooters showed complete disregard for the safety of those present, including children.
Michelle Sadio was among approximately 100 mourners, including young children, attending the wake for Dianne Boatong, 80. As guests gathered outside, a black Kia drove up, and shots were fired into the crowd, resulting in Michelle’s death.
Kenneth Amoah, a Transport for London contractor, was left paralyzed below the waist, and Kadeem Francis, a self-employed individual, sustained a foot injury during the shooting.
The primary target of the attack was identified as a rapper known as Trapstar Toxic, whose real name is Adetokunbo Ajibola. Allen-Thomas was implicated in organizing the shooting but made sure he was not present during the incident. The vehicle used in the shooting, a stolen Kia with false plates, was later set on fire with petrol purchased by Salem.
During the trial, it was revealed that Salem was in communication with the Kia occupants on the night of the shooting and reported back to Allen-Thomas. Although multiple shots were fired, the actual shooter from the Kia remains unknown. Prosecutors alleged that two individuals from the Kia fled the country after the incident.
In a statement to the court, Mr. Sadio expressed forgiveness towards the defendants to prevent his children from harboring hatred. He urged the defendants to use their time for reflection and transformation, emphasizing the pain caused to both families.
Mr. Sadio encouraged the defendants to make positive choices for a better future and become the individuals their families envisioned. He conveyed a message of forgiveness and hope for their personal growth and societal contribution.
