Chris Habiyakare was shot during an altercation with intruders on August 24. Mustafa Alhassan has pleaded guilty to homicide by firearm at Victoria’s Supreme Court after the death of young rapper Chris Habiyakare. Alhassan and two co-offenders forced their way into the victim’s house in Melbourne’s west in 2021, before Alhassan shot him with a rifle. Mustafa Alhassan will be sentenced at a later date. A Supreme Court judge says he’s «far from persuaded» that a killer is sorry for shooting a young rapper dead during a home invasion four years ago. Mustafa Alhassan and two co-offenders forced their way into Chris Habiyakare’s house in Melbourne’s west on August 24, 2021, before Alhassan shot the victim in the chest with a rifle. Prosecutor Ray Gibson told the Supreme Court of Victoria the men wrongly believed there was $1 million in the Sunshine West home, with only a stash of drugs and $41,000 in cash eventually found. Alhassan was arrested seven months later, with Mr. Gibson telling the court he made disparaging comments about the victim after the shooting, referring to Mr. Habiyakare as a «shit guy».
The Killing of Chris Habiyakare
The courtroom was tense with emotions as the victim’s family and friends shared their personal experiences during the trial. The testimonies reflected the deep loss and trauma endured by those who were close to Chris Habiyakare, highlighting the void left by his untimely passing. His friend, Maya Wolkoski, recounted the night of the incident and how the aftermath had left her and others emotionally scarred. The victim’s father, Belthrand Habiyakare, detailed the ongoing struggle with his mental health following his son’s death and his efforts to channel his grief into something constructive by establishing a treatment center in Burundi. Meanwhile, the defense attempted to convey Alhassan’s claimed remorse, despite evidence of his previous lack of regret and plans for further criminal activity. The prosecution emphasized the severity of the crime and the legislative context of the homicide by firearm charge, noting its gravity and the potential sentence Alhassan could face. As the proceedings continued, the court awaited the judge’s decision on Alhassan’s sentencing, which would consider the totality of the presented evidence and the profound loss suffered by Chris Habiyakare’s loved ones.
Impact on Friends and Family
Prosecutors also read victim impact statements from the victim’s father, Belthrand Habiyakare, and another friend, Maya Wolkoski, who was also at the house. Mr. Habiyakare said his son’s death has had a profound impact on his mental health. In the hope of honouring his son, Mr. Habiyakare set up a drug and alcohol treatment centre for young people in the African nation of Burundi. Beltrand Habiyakare said the death of his son had affected his mental health. «I feel incomplete, weak and incompetent as a father,» his statement read. «It almost feels like I should not have hope that any of my other children will make it past the age of which Chris passed.» The charge Alhassan was facing, homicide by firearm, was introduced in 2020 and is similar to manslaughter. The offence carries a maximum penalty of 25 years jail, with a standard sentence of 13 years. Ms. Argiropoulos said the untimely death of Mr. Habiyakare occurred «within the context of what was planned to be a home invasion» and «occurred spontaneously». Alhassan was supported in the courtroom by his parents, brothers, and aunt. He was remanded in custody and will be sentenced at a later date.
Expressions of Remorse and Psychological Impact
Alhassan’s defence lawyer, Karen Argiropoulos SC, conceded her client’s actions afterwards, which included plans to carry out another home invasion, were not consistent with remorse. Alhassan’s willingness to engage in another home invasion and obtain a firearm did him no credit whatsoever, she said. Ms. Argiropoulos mentioned that her client had since expressed genuine remorse to a psychologist and had cried when he first spoke to another person about committing the crime. Justice Christopher Beale, who now has the task of sentencing Alhassan for the offence of homicide by firearm, questioned whether Alhassan was crying for himself.
Efforts to Honor Chris Habiyakare’s Legacy and Support Others
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the court proceedings continue as both the victim’s and the perpetrator’s families grapple with the loss and consequences of that fateful night. Mustafa Alhassan’s sentencing looms as a reminder of the irreversible impact of his actions, leaving deep scars on those who knew and loved Chris Habiyakare. As they await the final judgment, memories of the young rapper linger in the minds of his family and friends, who strive to honor his legacy amidst their sorrow.
