Video of suspected ‘honor killing’ plot resurfaces as parents stand trial for attempted murder

The trial for a Washington father and his wife accused of attempting to kill their 17-year-old daughter in October 2024 is set to commence on Monday. Ihsan Ali, 44, and his wife Zahraa Ali, 40, face charges of second-degree attempted murder, second-degree attempted kidnapping, first-degree attempted kidnapping, and second-degree domestic violence assault in Thurston County. In addition, Ihsan Ali is charged with fourth-degree assault, while Zahraa Ali faces charges of violation of a domestic violence protective order and second-degree burglary.

The incident, which occurred on October 18, 2024, is believed to be a potential “honor killing” based on witness statements detailed in court documents. The victim, their teenage daughter, reported that her father was trying to force her to go to another country, which led her to run away earlier that day. She sought help at Timberline High School in Lacey County, where her parents and sister followed her. The victim managed to find refuge at “Safe Haven” with the assistance of a school counselor, but her father confronted her at a bus stop, insisting she return home.

According to the victim, her father physically assaulted her, causing her to lose consciousness multiple times as he choked her. Video footage of the altercation captured by The Daily Mail shows part of the confrontation at the bus stop. Witnesses described the victim’s father attacking her while her 16-year-old boyfriend tried to intervene. The boyfriend’s mother revealed that the victim had previously expressed fears of honor killing due to refusing an arranged marriage with an older man in another country.

During the altercation, bystanders witnessed Ihsan Ali choking his daughter, prompting one individual to intervene and detain him until law enforcement arrived. The victim’s boyfriend believed she was in imminent danger of death during the incident. Victor Barnes, the boyfriend’s father, expressed gratitude for his son’s intervention but criticized the lack of adult supervision during the ordeal. He recounted filing a restraining order against the victim’s parents for repeatedly visiting their home in search of the victim before the assault.

The upcoming trial will shed further light on the disturbing events that unfolded, highlighting the complexities of domestic violence and cultural expectations within families. Stay tuned for updates on this harrowing case as justice is sought for the teenage victim and accountability is pursued for her parents’ alleged actions.