In a tragic incident on Cedar Road, a 20-year-old individual lost his life over a dispute that occurred on Saturday. The victim has been identified as MDrawnaq Ratin by family members. The shocking news was initially received by the victim’s father, MDataur Liton, who stated, “My wife gave me the terrible news that our son had been shot. I was taken aback, as I know my son as an upright human being and I can’t fathom the reason behind this brutality.”
The purpose behind the fatal incident seems to be a disagreement concerning a parking spot on Cedar Road. This parking area, situated in front of a vacant plot, was a frequent hangout location for Ratin and his friends. Hammad Latif, a close companion of the victim, narrates the event in utter disbelief.
“Suddenly, the shooter took issue with him parking in that location, although it was public parking situated on a road. There was some strange anger in him,” Latif mentioned. “He proceeded to intimidate us, and even attempted to attack him. Then, in a shocking turn of events, he pulled out his firearm. During our attempt to retreat to our vehicle, he shot.”
The grieving family of the deceased is, however, convinced that the motive for the murder is rooted beyond just a silly parking squabble. “We are led to believe this could be a hate crime, stemming from a targeted animosity towards us,” expresses the anguished father, Liton.
In response, Cheektowaga Police states that it is too premature to label the incident as a hate crime. They are currently preparing to explore all possibilities pertaining to the nature of this event.
Adding to the story, the police relayed that a person alleging to be the offender called the emergency services at approximately 5 p.m. on Saturday, asserting his role in the shooting. As soon as the call was received, the police officers initiated life-saving techniques until an ambulance could transport Ratin to ECMC for further medical help.
Despite all the efforts, Ratin succumbed to his injuries at ECMC. Further to this, a firearm was recovered from the site of the incident. The police stated that even though an individual confessed to the crime over a phone call, they are obligated to carry out a comprehensive investigation before anyone can be apprehended.
They also assured that based on the evidence at hand, there is no sense of immediate danger looming over the public. At present, they have not made any arrests related to the case, keeping in line with due process.
In the absence of any arrests, Ratin’s family is vehemently advocating for justice. The desolate father states, “This sadness is unbearable, we fervently hope for justice.” In agreement, Ratin’s friend Latif adds, “We must ensure that justice is served.”
In an official statement, Cheektowaga Police Captain Jeffrey Schmidt urged community members for their cooperation in this challenging time. He stated, “We are encouraging everyone in the community to respect the investigative process by remaining patient and calm as we collect and process on-scene evidences associated with the homicide.”
Simultaneously, the police department is encouraging anyone who might have useful information or footage pertaining to the incident to come forward. The contact for the relevant authority, Cheektowaga Police Detective Bureau, has been given as (716) 686-3510.
Meanwhile, Ratin’s family has announced plans for a memorial service. The commemorative service for the departed soul will be held at the Buffalo Muslim Center, scheduled for Monday at 5 p.m.