Ali Arezoumandifar, a 79-year-old former liquor store owner, was tragically shot and killed on November 22, 2015, in Boynton Beach, Florida. Arezoumandifar had recently sold his business, the Liquor Market, and was working his final shift to help the new owners transition. On that fateful night, he was found by a customer lying on the floor behind the counter, with the cash register open and empty. The police believe he was fatally shot during a robbery attempt.
This incident occurred just hours before he was set to retire, with his family waiting at home to celebrate his retirement with a surprise dinner.
The investigation into Arezoumandifar's death revealed that the store did not have security cameras, which complicated the efforts to identify the perpetrators. However, detectives scoured the area for footage from nearby businesses in hopes of finding clues. The community was deeply affected by his death, remembering him as a kind and gentle man who was well-liked by his customers.
In the months following the murder, the Boynton Beach Police Department worked tirelessly to solve the case. More than a year later, in November 2016, they arrested Eric Colbert in connection with the crime. Colbert was charged with first-degree murder and armed robbery. The arrest brought some relief to Arezoumandifar's family and the community, who had been anxiously awaiting justice.
The case against Colbert proceeded through the legal system, with prosecutors presenting evidence of his involvement in the robbery and subsequent shooting. The trial highlighted the senseless nature of the crime, as Arezoumandifar was simply trying to help the new owners of the store and enjoy his retirement. The community's support for the Arezoumandifar family remained strong throughout the legal proceedings, as they sought closure and justice for their beloved family member.
