The upscale Al-Malki neighborhood in Damascus witnessed a tragic incident on the night between Sunday and Monday, where the life of actress Diala Al-Wadi, daughter of the late composer Salhi Al-Wadi, was brought to an end following an armed break-in at her home with the intent of robbery.

According to Syrian media outlets, the assailant pursued Diala to the entrance of her residence, broke in, and fatally strangled her before stealing a sum of money and gold jewelry, then fleeing the scene.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed that the crime was carried out in a violent and direct manner and was motivated by theft. Meanwhile, the Syrian Ministry of Interior announced that the Criminal Investigation Branch has launched an investigation, collecting evidence from the scene to identify and apprehend the perpetrator.

As of the time of writing, no official details have been released regarding funeral arrangements or memorial services, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

The Syrian Artists Syndicate Mourns Diala Al-Wadi

The Syrian Artists Syndicate mourned the loss of Diala Al-Wadi via its official Facebook page, posting: "Our heartfelt condolences on the passing of artist Diala Salhi Al-Wadi following an armed robbery in her home... We belong to God and to Him we shall return."

A Glimpse into Diala Al-Wadi’s Life and Career

Diala Al-Wadi, a British citizen, lived in Damascus for many years and resided in the Al-Malki district. She was the daughter of the esteemed composer Salhi Al-Wadi, founder of the Higher Institute of Music and the Syrian National Symphony Orchestra.

She was known for her presence in both artistic and cultural circles and took part in numerous theatrical performances and television productions in recent years. Diala graduated from the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in 1986.

Heartfelt Reactions from the Artistic Community

The news of Diala’s death sent shockwaves through the Syrian artistic community. A number of prominent artists expressed their sorrow on social media.

Actress Shoukran Murtaja wrote a heartfelt post: "Our teacher and the daughter of our beloved maestro Salhi Al-Wadi… a dear friend. May God have mercy on your soul, Diala. Peace to your spirit and patience to us and all who loved you."

Actor Qassem Melho also expressed his deep shock, writing: "A heartbreaking piece of news… Diala Al-Wadi, a graduate of the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts – Class of 1986, and the daughter of Syria’s great academic music pioneer Salhi Al-Wadi, has had her life ended today in her home in Damascus. Mercy to your soul, Diala. You were a breath of elegance and grace."

He extended his condolences to her family, colleagues, and loved ones, naming her peers from the same graduating class—including the late Hatem Ali, Ghassan Massoud, Aref Al-Toubeh, Maher Salibi, Dala Al-Rahbi, Mayada Deeb, Mahmoud Othman, and Fouad Hassan—and concluded: "Condolences to her family, her classmates, and all those who loved her… There is no power nor strength except through God."