HOUSTON, Texas — The Afghan community in Houston is seeking answers following the fatal shooting of Abdul Rahman Waziri, a former collaborator with U.S. Special Forces. The incident occurred Sunday night at an apartment complex on Ocee Street, where Waziri, who had escaped Taliban rule for a safer life in the U.S., was shot multiple times.
His brother, Abdullah Khan, expressed disbelief and heartbreak over the tragedy, stating, “He came here seeking safety, and now this has happened to him.” The shooting has raised urgent questions about local law enforcement’s handling of the case.
Initial reports indicate that the shooter approached police at the scene and claimed he was involved in an argument with Waziri over a parking dispute, a claim that ended with him not facing immediate charges. Omar Khawaja, an attorney representing Waziri’s family, described the shooting as an unforgivable act of violence. “We believe this was a public execution,” he asserted, urging a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Witnesses, according to Khawaja, stated that the conflict escalated when the shooter began vandalizing Waziri’s vehicle. After the physical altercation, the statement alleges that the shooter, rather than disengaging, retrieved a firearm and shot Waziri as he walked back to his car, a scene described by Khawaja as “cold-blooded murder.”
Despite his identification as the shooter, local police released the man after consulting with the District Attorney’s Office, which has led to frustration and fear among the Afghan community. “Everyone is unsettled knowing that the individual responsible is still living among us,” remarked community leader Omer Yousafzai. “To think he could walk freely after committing such an act is unacceptable.”
In response to their concerns, Khan and approximately two dozen supporters gathered at Houston Police Department headquarters to demand justice. Demonstrators held placards urging for accountability, illustrating the collective outcry for a fair investigation. Following the rally, Khan met with police officials and provided the names of potential witnesses who have yet to be interviewed.
While the District Attorney’s Office has not commented on the case, Khan expressed cautious optimism that their meeting might spur action in the investigation. “I feel slightly more hopeful now that we’ve made our voices heard,” he stated, reinforcing the community’s resolve to seek justice for Waziri.
The incident has not only shocked those close to the victim but has also highlighted broader issues of safety and accountability within the community. As they continue to advocate for justice, the Afghan residents in Houston remain vigilant and hopeful for change.