Shivangi Sinha
A key part of Laura Cowan’s story is her family, who endured the ordeal alongside her. While her husband, Shabazz Cowan, was imprisoned at the time of her abduction by Musa Muhummed, her children, Ahmed and Maryam, were with her throughout the harrowing experience. One of the most difficult aspects for Laura was witnessing her children suffer under the abusive and deplorable conditions imposed by Musa. Lifetime’s ‘Girl in the Garage: The Laura Cowan Story’ delves into various facets of her life, including the experiences of her husband and children, painting a complete picture of the tumultuous five years she endured.
Muhammad Shabazz Cowan Passed Away After He Was Released From Prison
Muhammad Shabazz Cowan was living in Monrovia, California, when he met Laura Cowan. Finding a life partner in her, the two decided to build a life together. He opened a restaurant in San Bernardino, California, which he found to be a deeply rewarding venture. In 1992, the couple welcomed their son, Muhammad Mahdi Shabazz, affectionately nicknamed Ahmed. In 1995, their daughter, Maryam Shabazz, was born. However, before Muhammad could spend much time with Maryam, he was arrested on charges of illegal weapon possession.
Some reports allege he may have been associated with the Nation of Islam (NOI), though this has not been substantiated. While Muhammad was incarcerated, Laura was manipulated and abducted by Musa Muhummed, enduring five years of torment. Tragically, shortly after Muhammad’s release from prison, he passed away. Details about the cause of his death and other circumstances have not been publicly disclosed, but available information indicates that he likely never had the chance to fully reunite with his family.
Ahmed Shabazz Has Bravely Moved Forward in Life
Muhammad Mahdi Shabazz, also known as Ahmed, endured some of the worst abuse inflicted by Musa Muhummed. At just four years old, he was abducted alongside his mother and subjected to severe beatings, malnourishment, and confinement in the same garage as Laura. By the time of his rescue, Ahmed exhibited signs of extreme physical and emotional trauma, including severe malnourishment and mental health issues. Witnessing the suffering her son endured became one of Laura’s strongest motivations to risk her life and seek help.
Following their release, Ahmed underwent intensive therapy alongside his mother and began his journey toward recovery. He moved with Laura back to Cleveland, Ohio, where he completed his schooling. By 2011, reports indicated that he had enrolled at Cabrillo College in Aptos, near Santa Cruz, and was thriving as he worked to rebuild his life.
Maryam Shabazz is Most Likely Helping Other Domestic Abuse Survivors Today
Maryam Shabazz was only three months old when she was abducted along with her mother and brother. In a later interview, Laura shared that she didn’t remember much of the time spent in captivity. Maryam was rescued in April 1999 and moved to Cleveland, Ohio, with the rest of her family.
In January 2017, a news report surfaced about an attack on Maryam in Cleveland. While working alongside her mother to assist a domestic abuse victim, she was punched and kicked. Despite the assault, she bravely shared her experience, speaking out about the violence she had endured. Her younger sister, Tasslimah Muhummed, stood by her side when she addressed the media. Though she has kept a relatively low profile, it appears she continues to work alongside her mother, having found her purpose in helping others.
Read More: Musa Muhummed: Where is Laura Cowan’s Abuser Now?
