Chamblee police searching for men, SUV linked to homicide

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Police are asking for the public’s help identifying three men and a black Cadillac Escalade believed to be tied to a homicide that occurred earlier this month.

Chamblee police said the incident occurred around 4:30 a.m. on Aug. 3 behind Oriental Plaza at 4897 Buford Highway.

The victim was shot from behind while speaking to an acquaintance, according to police. The victim’s family identified him as Abdul Basit Hydara.

“We are devastated. We don’t have the words to express our feelings right now,” said Abuba Karr Gassama, Hydara’s cousin.

The family is from Gambia.

Yakubaa Hydara, the victim’s father, said his son came to the U.S. when he was seven years old.

He said Abdul Basit was a devoted Muslim and a hard worker who was well-loved and respected in both the local Gambian community and his home country.

“He helped a lot of young men and young women in this community. In Gambia, the same thing,” Yakubaa said.

The family says Hydara was meeting someone at the location to talk about buying a car when he was shot and killed.

They believe he was an innocent bystander.

“I talked to the officer. He told me, ‘your son didn’t do anything, according to my report.’ He said, ‘your son didn’t fight. He didn’t argue,’” Yakubaa recalled.

The family is pleading with the public to help bring justice to their loved one.

“This madness, senseless killings have to stop. They have to stop,” Gassama said. “Those criminals who are responsible for his demise, we want them to face justice so that the community and the streets become safer.”

Hydara leaves behind a wife and two kids.

Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta is offering a $5,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest in this case.

If you have any information, please contact the Chamblee Police Department at 770-986-5005. To remain anonymous, reach out to Crime Stoppers by calling 404-577-TIPS (8477), texting CSGA to 738477, or visiting here.