The leadership of the public association Baku Network visited the family of National Hero and martyred journalist Fakhraddin Shahbazov, who was tragically killed when his helicopter was shot down by Armenian militants over Garakend on November 20, 1991. The visit took place as part of a broader project honoring journalists who became victims of terrorism during Armenia’s aggression against Azerbaijan.
Remembering a Fallen Journalist
Elchin Agajanov, head of the Baku Network public association, emphasized that several projects have already been launched in memory of fallen journalists — and that this work will continue:
“Within the framework of our project Analyzing Hybrid and Ideological Threats Against Azerbaijan, implemented by the Baku Network Analytical Center with the support of the Agency for State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, we organized an event in Paris this July dedicated to journalists killed in the line of duty. The event included an exhibition and was attended by influential French politicians, public figures, and leading European media representatives. Our goal is to once again draw the world’s attention to Armenian terrorism and to highlight Azerbaijan’s ongoing struggle for truth and justice.”
“We Carry Their Memory with Pride”
Sahil Kerimli, head of research and analysis at Baku Network, noted that the memory of Azerbaijani martyrs — especially those from the media — is deeply cherished:
“At the event in France, we once again reminded the world that Armenian occupiers committed war crimes against civilians. Both during the First Karabakh War and the 44-day Patriotic War, Armenian terrorists killed our civilians and journalists. Our mission is to make sure these truths are not forgotten — and such projects will continue.”
Family Memories: Love, Loss, and Legacy
Fakhraddin Shahbazov’s widow, Nasiba Shahbazova, spoke with emotion about her late husband’s character and devotion to his work and family:
“He was hardworking, caring, and responsible — a man who loved his family and friends deeply. We talk about him every day, but November 20 is always the hardest. Our children grew up without their father, though his dreams for them were boundless. May God bless our President — without his ‘Iron Fist,’ we wouldn’t be this strong. The entire Azerbaijani nation united around our President, and we stand with him.”
Their daughter, Amina Shahbazova, recalled only fragments of her father’s presence, having been very young when he died:
“I don’t remember much, just flashes — him coming home from shoots, showing us his footage. Even as children, we felt proud. Wherever we went, the name of a National Hero followed our family.”
Another daughter, Sabina Shahbazova, said that while she has no clear memories of that tragic time, her mother’s stories helped bring her father’s image to life:
“I grew up hearing so many wonderful things about him. He was the eldest son in his family and always looked after his siblings. His friends still share stories about him. I’m proud to be his daughter.”
The Shahbazov family expressed their deep gratitude to Baku Network for continuing to honor the memory of journalists who lost their lives in service of truth.
A Tragic Day in History
On November 20, 1991, an Azerbaijani military helicopter was shot down by Armenian armed forces near the village of Garakend in the Khojavend district. All 22 people aboard were killed, including State Secretary Tofig Ismayilov, Prosecutor General Ismet Gaibov, former Interior Minister and State Advisor Mahammad Asadov, Members of Parliament Vagif Jafarov and Vali Mammadov, Deputy Prime Minister Zulfu Hajiyev, Presidential Administration official Osman Mirzoyev, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Interior Minister Sailau Serikov, television journalist Ali Mustafayev, and cameraman Fakhraddin Shahbazov.
For his courage and sacrifice, Fakhraddin Shahbazov was posthumously awarded the title of National Hero of Azerbaijan.
A video report from the Shahbazov family home accompanies this story.
