Later today, 29-year-old Jordan McSweeney will appear in custody at Thames Magistrates’ Court on charges of attempted rape and robbery.
A man has been charged with the murder of Zara Aleena in Ilford, east London, while her family releases a statement describing her as a “blessing to all.”
Ms. Aleena, 35, was discovered with “serious head injuries” at approximately 2:45 a.m. on Sunday in Cranbrook Road; she died later that morning in the hospital.
No weapons are believed to have been employed.
Metropolitan Police stated that Jordan McSweeney, 29, has also been charged with attempted rape and robbery.
Later today, he will appear in custody at the Thames Magistrates’ Court.
In a statement issued via the Metropolitan Police Ms. Aleena’s family described her as having a “pure heart,” “sparkling eyes,” and “glorious laughter.
It states: “Zara, age 35, was a beloved human, child, niece, cousin, and granddaughter, as well as a friend to all. She brought us all joy.
“She provided care for both her mother and grandmother. Caring for others was something that came so naturally to her.
“Zara was sociable and everyone’s friend. She was the daughter of everyone, the niece of everyone, the sister of everyone, and the cousin of everyone. She had a pure heart.”
Ms. Aleena had wanted to be a lawyer since the age of five, according to the statement, which also described her as “a carefree spirit with the kindest heart.”
“Zara was at a point in her life where her happiness was radiating and growing,” her family said.
They explain that she was the “rock” of their family and was eager to start her own.
It concludes by stating: “Our loss is irreparable and the void feels insurmountable, but the warmth and compassion shown by our community is evidence of Zara’s enduring spirit. Her existence has been robbed from us. She has been taken from all of us.”
According to her family, Ms. Aleena completed a two-year internship with the Crown Prosecution Service to become an attorney.
According to the University of Westminster, Ms. Aleena earned a postgraduate diploma in legal practice last year.
A spokeswoman said: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn that Zara Aleena, a former law school student, and graduate, passed away in such a tragic manner. During this tragic time, our thoughts are with Zara’s family and loved ones.”
A vigil is scheduled for Cranbrook Road on Saturday, 2 July, at 2:17 p.m. Attendees have been asked to wear white and to maintain a “quiet and somber” atmosphere.
Ms. Aleena’s family stated, “We want to return her safely to where she belongs.”
Lisa Hodgson, Ms. Aleena’s best friend, expressed shock and anger at her death on Tuesday and revealed the final messages she received from her.
Lisa had sent Ms. Aleena a screenshot of a sunset, to which she responded “beautiful” and added, “Miss your beautiful face this weekend xx can’t wait to see you next weekend xxx.”
