The Memphis community mourns the loss of Khalid Al Ghazali, a beloved business owner who was fatally shot on Saturday, April 20th, outside his store, Royal Bee Beauty Supply, in Frayser.
A Pillar of the Community
Al Ghazali wasn’t just a businessman; he was a pillar of the Frayser community. Royal Bee Beauty Supply, located on North Watkins, wasn’t just a store; it was a place where residents could find hair products, wigs, and cosmetics, but more importantly, a friendly face and a listening ear. Al Ghazali, according to those who knew him, was a kind and generous man who always strived to support his customers and neighbors.
The Shooting
The details surrounding the shooting paint a disturbing picture. Security footage retrieved by Al Ghazali’s family shows a chilling sequence of events. Three individuals arrived in a Toyota Sequoia and parked in a lot near Royal Bee Beauty Supply as early as 8:00 am, two hours before Al Ghazali even arrived. This premeditated nature of the attack adds another layer of horror to the tragedy.
The footage then shows Al Ghazali pulling his black truck into the back parking lot around 10:00 am. In a cruel twist of fate, the Toyota pulls out, blocking his exit. Three individuals emerge from the SUV, weapons drawn, and open fire on Al Ghazali.
In a desperate attempt to defend himself, Al Ghazali throws his truck into reverse, colliding with the Toyota. The gunmen, momentarily stunned, are forced to scramble out of the way. However, they continue their barrage of bullets, relentlessly firing into the truck even as Al Ghazali activates his hazard lights, a clear sign of surrender.
Trapped and defenseless, Al Ghazali is fatally wounded. The gunmen, their crime complete, flee the scene on foot, leaving behind a community in shock and grief.
A Search for Justice
As of Thursday, April 25th, Memphis Police are still searching for the perpetrators of this heinous crime. The brazen daylight shooting and the calculated nature of the attack raise serious concerns about the safety of the Frayser community.
The Memphis Police Department is urging anyone with information about the identity or whereabouts of the assailants to come forward. CrimeStoppers is offering a reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 901-528-2274.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of Khalid Al Ghazali is a devastating blow to the Frayser community. He was more than just a business owner; he was a friend, a neighbor, and a pillar of strength. His death leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Memphis community stands united. A vigil is planned to honor Al Ghazali’s memory and show support for his family. Local businesses are banding together to raise reward money for information leading to an arrest.
The fight for justice continues, but the pain of loss remains. The community grieves for Khalid Al Ghazali, a kind man who was taken away in a senseless act of violence. His memory will live on, and the hope is that those responsible will be brought to justice.
