Decapitation has leaders speaking out

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WIVB) - A tragedy in western New York is uniting people.

The brutal murder of Bridges T.V. co-founder Aasiya Zubair Hassan has local religious leaders speaking out against domestic violence.

News 4 was at an event Saturday night in her memory.

Police say violence was part of Aasiya Zubair Hassan's marriage. Her husband, Muzzammil Hassan, is charged with second-degree murder in her death.

"It's a global phenomenon. It's happening all around the world," said Imam Nazim Mangera\Masjid An-Noor.

Imam Nazim Mangera is talking about domestic violence. A symposium is held in memory of the Orchard Park mother at this mosque in Getzville.

"Domestic violence is an issue that cross all boundaries. It's not just an inner city Buffalo issue. It's not just an Orchard Park issue," said Susan Sizemore, Executive Director of Commission on Status of Women.

Police believe Hassan decapitated his wife, several days after she filed for divorce and got a court order or protection.

"Every single person has a role to play in preventing by speaking out against the issue and not remaining silent," said Salma Abugideiri of Peaceful Families Project.

Aasiya and her husband were executives at Bridges T.V. which they formed to foster better understanding of the Muslim community and bridge cultures.

"This situtation isn't over. We're probably going to see a court case," said Ingrid Matteson, President of Islamic Society of North America.

A community gathers to get information. People here say while the crime was comitted against a Muslim, a wife and mother, the issue of domestic violence affects everyone.

Abugidieri said, "We know that one in three women, every day, are affected by domestic violence in this country."

Muzzamil Hassan is being held without bail and is awaiting a grand jury trial