Indian-American motel owner killed in rent dispute altercation
PTC News Desk: In a tragic incident, a 76-year-old Indian-origin motel owner, Pravin Raojibhai Patel, was shot dead in Alabama, USA, following a dispute over room rent. The incident, which occurred last week at the Hillcrest Motel in Sheffield, resulted in the arrest of 34-year-old William Jeremy Moore.
Moore was apprehended shortly after the altercation as he attempted to break into an abandoned house nearby. According to reports, the confrontation arose on February 8 when Moore sought to rent a room at the motel. An argument ensued, leading to Moore brandishing a handgun and fatally shooting Patel.
Upon searching Moore, law enforcement officers found the murder weapon in his possession. Currently detained in the Sheffield City Jail, Moore awaits a warrant for his transfer to the Colbert County Jail. Witnesses, including Jemeriz Owens, a barber working near the motel, recounted hearing three consecutive gunshots during the altercation. Owens described Patel as attempting to persuade someone to leave the premises before being shot.
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Following the tragedy, Patel's body underwent autopsy at the Alabama Forensics Lab, with funeral services held on February 12 at Morrison Funeral Home in Tuscumbia. Expressing profound sorrow over the incident, the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) condemned the violence, labeling it a "senseless act." AAHOA Chairman Bharat Patel extended condolences to Patel's family, emphasizing the community's solidarity in seeking justice.
Sanjay M Patel, AAHOA Alabama Regional Director, remembered Patel as a respected and longstanding member of the Sheffield community, having dedicated over four decades to his motel business. Describing Patel as a family-oriented and amiable individual, Sanjay Patel highlighted his significant contributions to the community.
The tragic incident adds to a series of unfortunate events involving the Indian community in the US since the beginning of the year.
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(Inputs from agencies)
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