An Illinois man has been sentenced to 55 years in prison for the brutal murder of his teenage daughter. Mohammed Almaru, 44, was convicted of first-degree murder in August for the death of his 17-year-old daughter, Mia Maro, in their Tinley Park home in May 2022.
Mia’s lifeless body was found by her aunt on May 1, 2022. The teenager’s body bore signs of a brutal attack, with extensive bruising. The weapons used in the assault, a rubber mallet from the garage and a bloodied metal pole from the kitchen, were found at the scene.
Following the gruesome act, Almaru attempted to take his own life by self-inflicting wounds and consuming pills. He later confessed to the crime in a text message sent to a family member, stating that he had lost control and beaten his daughter.
Family members disclosed that a disagreement over Mia attending her high school prom might have triggered Almaru’s violent outburst. He had reportedly rescinded his permission for her to attend the event after reading messages on her phone that aroused his suspicions.
Court records revealed that Mia had expressed fear of her father’s temper to her relatives. She had shared her concerns that he might harm or even kill her, particularly after she was involved in a minor car accident.
Mia was remembered fondly by her loved ones. Her aunt, Randa Almaru, described her as a “beautiful soul” and “the light of our lives.” Mia had been a primary caregiver for her incapacitated mother, in addition to being a beloved daughter, sister, and friend.
The judge ruled that Almaru would serve his full sentence, taking into account the time he had already spent in custody. The court rejected appeals for a new trial and a reconsideration of the sentence.
Almaru’s crime sent shockwaves through the community and cut short the life of a young woman who had a profound impact on those around her. As Almaru faces the consequences of his actions, Mia’s family and friends continue to grieve and honor her memory.