On the night of May 12, 2023, Fahed "Pops" Fatayri, the 82-year-old owner of Mom & Pops GAS station in Terrell, Texas, was fatally shot during an armed robbery at his store. The incident occurred shortly before 11 p.m. at the gas station located in the 400 block of Virginia Street. Terrell police received a 911 call reporting shots fired, and officers who were already nearby heard the gunfire and began searching the area.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered Fatayri deceased from apparent gunshot wounds inside his store. The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Jamarco Ja Keith Blanton from Dallas, was found attempting to flee south from the location and was immediately detained by the police. Investigators located Blanton's jacket and firearm nearby. Through in-store video surveillance and witness statements, authorities were able to positively identify Blanton as the perpetrator. He was subsequently charged with capital murder in connection with Fatayri's death.
Fatayri, affectionately known as "Pops," was a beloved and longstanding member of the Terrell community. He and his wife, Itadel, had owned and operated Mom & Pops GAS station since 1997. Known for his generosity, Fatayri often assisted community members in need, providing gas or food to those who couldn't afford it. His son, Mazen, recalled his father's commitment to giving back to the community, emphasizing that it was about more than just work and making money.
This tragic event was not the first time Fatayri had faced danger at his store. In 2015, at the age of 75, he defended his wife during an attempted robbery by shooting the assailant, who had been holding her at gunpoint. Despite such incidents, Fatayri remained a steadfast figure in the community, dedicated to serving and supporting those around him.
The loss of Fahed "Pops" Fatayri has left a profound impact on the Terrell community, with many mourning the senseless act of violence that took his life. His commitment to helping others and his unwavering presence at his store made him a cherished figure among residents. The arrest of Jamarco Blanton has provided some measure of justice, but the void left by Fatayri's passing continues to be deeply felt by all who knew him.
