THE innocent victim of a fatal drive-by shooting has been named as an ambitious law student who was a ‘truly remarkable young woman’.

Much-loved daughter, sister and friend Aya Hachem died on Sunday afternoon after receiving a fatal gun shot wound as she walked up King Street in Blackburn.

Police have now said that Ms Hachem, who had recently found out that she had passed her second-year law exams at Salford University, had been walking home from the shops when she became the unintended target of a ‘senseless’ gun attack fired from a Toyota Avensis car.

A murder investigation and hunt for the killer have now been launched by Lancashire Police’s leading detectives.

Now thousands of people, including, friends, teachers, lecturers and complete strangers from all corners of the world have paid tribute to the young woman, with the hashtag #RIPAYA trending on social media on Monday.

In a touching tribute to their ‘loyal and devoted’ daughter, Miss Hachem’s parents Samar and Ismael have spoken of her ambitions to complete her law degree so she could become a solicitor.

They said: “Our beautiful 19-year-old daughter Aya has been taken from us in the most horrific circumstances.

“She was the most loyal, devoted daughter who enjoyed spending time with her family especially her brothers and sisters Ibraham, Assil and Amir.

“She excelled in her studies both at Blackburn Central High School and at Salford University where she was in her second year and dreamed of becoming a solicitor.

“She had just completed her exams and was learning to drive.

“We, her parents, are absolutely devastated by her death and would like to take this opportunity to plead with any members of the public who may have any information however small that may bring those responsible to justice.”

The dedicated student, who was originally from Lebanon, was one of four siblings.

Her former teachers at Blackburn Central High School have described her as a model student who was hardworking and determined to be the very best she could be.

Miss Hachem was also described as a role model for all, but especially refugees and asylum seekers.

A statement released by the school read: “She had lots of friends and was involved in helping others by organising charity events.

“A beautiful young girl who fled her home country in search for a better life in the UK.

“At school she embraced every opportunity and was one of the students whose achievement we have celebrated on numerous occasions, an example of what is possible

“Aya made six levels of progress in her achievements and went on to St Mary’s College and then Salford University to study law.

“She never forgot BCHS and would take the opportunities to visit her teachers when we held parents evenings.

“She and will always be remembered for her diligence, her beautiful character and her humble nature.”

Miss Hachem went on to become one of the youngest ever trustees for The Children’s Society, a charity known for its research into the wellbeing of children.

In 2017 she won an award for her work with the organisation, after creating a video to raise awareness about the charity.

Bosses at the organisation have since paid tribute to Miss Hachem in the wake of her death, with chief executive Mark Russell, saying: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of one of our young trustees, Aya Hachem.

“She was a truly remarkable young woman, and an inspiring voice for children and young people.

“Our thoughts are with her family at this awful time.”

Once at university, Miss Hachem continued to excel in her studies, with a senior figure at Salford University describing the teenager as having a promising future ahead of her.

Dr Janice Allan, dean of Salford Business School said: “Aya Hachem was a very popular and promising second year student whose contribution went beyond the classroom. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult and distressing time.”

Miss Hachem and her family were also known to be heavily involved with Blackburn’s asylum seeker and refugee community, where many have paid tribute to the budding student.

A spokesman said: “Aya, one of our own, lost her life in a horrific senseless attack, randomly caught up in a shooting outside Lidl as she walked past at around 3pm on Sunday.

“Aya, a beautiful 19-year-old young woman from Lebanon, had just passed her second year law exams at Salford University and had a dream and ambition to study international law.

“Aya and her family are much loved in our ARC community.

“Our hearts and prayers are with them at this painful time especially during this holy month of Ramadam when Aya and her family were fasting.”

Community leaders from all corners of East Lancashire have now paid tribute to the 19-year-old too.

Councillor Mohammed Khan, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “This terrible crime, which has taken the life of an innocent young woman, has really shocked and saddened the whole community.

“We are working closely with police and we will be making sure that the family gets the support they need in this time of need.”

Senior clergy of the Diocese of Blackburn also released a joint statement, saying: “Shock and horror are the words that come to mind, as we recall the devastating news of a shooting and death of a young woman in Blackburn on Sunday.

“While an investigation is under way and information is scarce, we as leaders of the Church of England in Lancashire affirm our strong belief that violence should not have any place in our community.

“Peace, justice and security for all are the values of a good society.

“We express our heartfelt sympathy and support for Aya’s family and friends as they face this terrible and unexpected news, assuring them of our love and prayers.”

Several fundraising and memorial pages now been set up in Miss Hachem’s honour, one of which has already raised over £30,000.

Investigation latest – See Page 5