By Rupert Howell
Local law enforcement officials are asking the public’s help with identifying a killer who took the life of a Sardis convenience store owner and wounded an assistant late Monday night in Sardis in what District Attorney John Champion called a “senseless murder.”

Tareq Abuathiah, 35, of Senatobia was shot in back of the head as he was closing his Sama Quick Stop (former Pure Oil Station) on the east side of Highway 51 in Sardis about 11:40 p.m. An employee who Champion did not identify was also shot twice and is in stable condition at The Med in Memphis according to Champion.

The Panolian employee Rick Mills was heading to the store delivering newspapers minutes after the crime. He was stopped by law enforcement. He said others called the owner “Eric.” The store owner had always been respectful and polite to Mills when he visited the store. Mills also said that there are often several people hanging around the store when he makes his late night deliveries.

Champion released a picture taken of the shooter and identified him as a young black male with a red t-shirt or bandana around his head and a light colored jacket possibly with black skulls on it.

He said that he’s hoping someone saw something around the north side or behind the building in the minutes before the shooting and will come forward. He also said several possible witnesses were at the scene just moments after the shooting.

Champion said those with information should call Crimestoppers (1-800-729-2169), Panola County Sheriff’s Office, Mississippi Department of Investigation or Sardis Police Department with information.
High Point Funeral Chapel in Memphis is in charge of Abuathiah’s arrangements.