A man has been handed a 30-year prison sentence for the killing of his own daughter, Ryan al Najjar, who was found deceased in a pond after her 18th birthday. The perpetrator, Khaled al Najjar, murdered his daughter, claiming she was embracing a lifestyle he deemed too westernized, assisted by her brothers Muhanad and Muhamad.

Ryan’s parents sought asylum in the Netherlands to escape the conflict in Syria. Tragically, despite their efforts to start anew, Ryan was brutally murdered by her father due to disagreements over her lifestyle choices.

Evidence revealed that Ryan was still alive when she was disposed of in the water, with Khaled confessing in a chilling message that he regretted not burying her. During the trial, it was determined that the brothers were complicit in the murder, supported by data from their phones and physical evidence linking them to the crime scene.

Khaled fled to Syria post the crime and received a 30-year sentence in absentia, while Ryan’s brothers were convicted and sentenced to 20 years for their involvement. The family appeared integrated in society, but tensions arose over Ryan’s personal choices, leading to tragic consequences.

Accounts from Ryan’s mother and siblings described Khaled as a violent and controlling figure, instilling fear within the family. Ryan’s desire to explore her individuality and socialize clashed with her father’s strict beliefs, ultimately culminating in a horrific outcome.

Family members highlighted Khaled’s oppressive behavior and unjust treatment, painting a picture of a household filled with tension and fear. Ryan’s defiance and desire for independence were met with violence and intimidation, ultimately resulting in her untimely death.