The head of the first Syrian family to be resettled in the United States said Monday he is “honored to be here” and that ever since they arrived in Kansas City last week, his wife and their five children feel “safe.” Speaking through a translator during a press conference, Ahmad al-Abboud said “he will be doing his best to insure that he fits in with everybody.” “There is absolutely nothing to worry the American people,” the translator said. “The Syrian refugees are seeking a life with dignity, a better life for their family and kids.” Al-Abboud’s family fled Syria’s civil war three years ago and found refuge in Jordan, according to NBC News. But al-Abboud was unable to find work. His family is among the 1,000 Syrians who have been permitted to enter the U.S. from Jordan since last October.
Police have arrested a Londonderry, New Hampshire man for allegedly murdering his wife in their home earlier this year.
William Argie, 46, was arrested Friday after his wife, Maureen Argie, 39, was found dead at their house on West Road on April 4, according to investigators.
Law enforcement sources told NBC10 Boston at the time that police were called for a well-being check after the two children who live at the home were not picked up from school. The death was initially ruled suspicious.
Neighbors said only that a married couple lived in the home with their children. They said they were shocked to see this kind of police activity so close to home.
William Argie is charged with two alternative counts of second degree murder, one for knowingly causing the death of his wife by strangling and/or smothering her, and the other for recklessly causing her death under circumstances manifesting in an extreme indifference to the value of human life, by strangling and/or smothering her.
He is scheduled to be arraigned in Rockingham County Superior Court on Monday at 1 p.m.
It is unclear if he has an attorney.
