Bio

Harry M. Sassounian was born in 1961 to a family of Lebanese Armenian immigrants. He grew up in Pasadena, California. From a young age, he was involved with the Armenian community and participated in organizations that focused on issues related to Armenians, including the Armenian Youth Federation.

Sassounian's family background likely influenced his views and beliefs. The Armenian community in the United States often dealt with the history of the Armenian Genocide, where many Armenians lost their lives during the Ottoman Empire's rule. This history was important to many Armenian-Americans, including Sassounian.

As a young adult, Sassounian became active in political groups that addressed Armenian rights and historical grievances. He was a member of the Justice Commandos Against Armenian Genocide, a group that took a strong stance on issues related to Armenian justice and recognition.

Murder Story

On January 28, 1982, Harry M. Sassounian shot and killed Kemal Arikan, the Turkish Consul General in Los Angeles. This event took place at around 9:40 am while Arikan was stopped at a red light on Wilshire Boulevard and Comstock Street. Sassounian, identified as one of the two gunmen, targeted Arikan because of his nationality.

Witnesses reported seeing Sassounian during the crime. Law enforcement quickly arrived at the scene, and Sassounian was arrested on the same day. The motive for the murder was linked to vengeance for historical events, specifically the genocide of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire.

During the trial, the prosecution argued that Sassounian’s actions were driven by a desire for revenge. The jury found him guilty and sentenced him to life in prison without parole on June 15, 1984. This decision was made partly because they viewed the murder as a deliberate act against Arikan based on his nationality.

In 2002, Sassounian became eligible for parole after a deal was reached with prosecutors. He admitted guilt and apologized for his actions, saying he regretted the suffering his crime caused. Despite this, his requests for parole were denied by the California Prison Parole Board in 2006 and 2010.

Supporters, including groups like the Armenian Youth Federation, still consider Sassounian a martyr and advocate for his release.