In a somber update from Kalamazoo, 19-year-old Khymarus Pratt has been charged with the fatal shooting of 25-year-old Bader Mohamed Farwana. The incident, which occurred on the night of March 23rd, involved a tragic sequence of events stemming from what began as a purported drug deal.
According to police records, the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety was called to a scene on the 900 block of Jackson Street near Sheldon Street around 11:26 p.m., following reports of a vehicle accident. Upon arrival, officers discovered Farwana unresponsive in the driver's seat of his car, initially presumed to be involved in a crash. However, it soon became apparent that Farwana had sustained a gunshot wound to the chest, leading to his death shortly after the discovery.
Investigations revealed that Farwana had intended to sell cannabis valued at $50 to an acquaintance from Snapchat, who directed him to Pratt's residence on Russell Street. Court documents suggest that Pratt never intended to buy the cannabis but instead planned to steal it. After a failed transaction attempt using CashApp, Farwana was lured back to the location with a promise of rectifying the payment issue.
When Farwana returned, Pratt allegedly approached his vehicle and shot him through the driver-side window, ultimately leading to Farwana's death. Pratt is reported to have collected the spent shell casing, boasted about the shooting to friends via messages, and disposed of the weapon by giving it to a friend for the night.
Khymarus Pratt was arraigned on charges of open murder and felony firearm. He is currently being held without bond and is expected back in court for further proceedings early in May.
Adding to the tragedy, Farwana, a father to a one-year-old daughter and a prospective professional martial artist, was remembered by his family for his strong Palestinian roots and ambitions. He had been pursuing studies in information technology and had expressed pride in his heritage, planning to fly the Palestinian flag in an upcoming fight.
The case has cast a somber light on the risks associated with illegal drug transactions and the devastating impact of gun violence on communities. A GoFundMe page established to support Farwana's family and daughter has raised significant contributions, reflecting the community's response to this tragic event.
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