GLENDALE, AZ — A Valley family is mourning after a 16-year-old boy was killed during a road rage shooting Tuesday.
Muhammad Shah Salim was murdered after being shot in the head at the intersection of 59th Avenue and Indian School Road.
Police say he was at a nearby gas station with his friend, who was driving, when they accidentally cut off another car and revved their engine. The car then followed them down the street and fired a single shot at the stoplight. The bullet went through a back window, the passenger seat headrest and hit Shah Salim.
The teenager died at the hospital. He was the oldest of six, with three little sisters and two younger brothers.
“When we were little, we played with each other and talked to each other,” said younger brother Amin, who is 14 years old. “Then yesterday, I didn’t see him no more. I feel hurt in my heart.”
Amin said his brother’s death is slowly sinking in. “Before he passed away, I wanted to hear last words from him. But I didn’t hear any words.”
His mother has been praying for her son since his death. Amin said she is still in disbelief.
“My mom is like make him coffee, and don’t talk back, be nice to him,” said Amin. “I was like ‘Mom, what are you talking about? He’s not here.’ But then I cannot say anything.”
Shah, as he was known to friends, went to Glendale High School. He was a shy kid, but a loyal friend. “He would always be there for you,” said one friend. “He was the best dude.”
His family immigrated from Malaysia two years ago for a better life. Instead they have found pain.
His father told ABC15 through a translator that his son was a good kid who never hurt anyone.
Police arrested 19-year-old Eduardo Madera. Detectives say he confessed to the shooting and hid the revolver near his backyard.
“He died in my hands, he’s always with me. I go anywhere, he goes with me,” said the friend who was driving when Shah was shot.
Shah’s life was cut short over a car swerving. His memory now lives with his parents, friends and siblings, who will grow up without their big brother.
“I’m going to remember him whenever I go to school, I’m going to remember him,” said Amin.
Phoenix police say other people were in the car when Shah was shot.
They still want to talk to those people and are asking the public to call them if they know anything.
