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Date: 01 Feb 2010
Time: 19:49:51 -0700
CHESTER — Members of the city’s Muslim community believe they know who killed beloved businessman Abulaash Ansari the night of Dec. 12. They just need the proof. Over the past month or so, they’ve been collecting money for a reward and are now offering $5,000 to for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. “We know who did it,” said Mohamed Habib, a close family friend. “But we need somebody to come up and to say what they saw or what they know to lead the investigators in the right direction.” Abulaash Ansari was shot to death inside of his home in the 600 block of West 12th Street around 9 p.m. Dec. 12. The 57-year-old businessman and his daughter were inside of their home that night when there was a knock at the door. When Ansari went to the door, someone opened fire, striking the unsuspecting grandfather in the trunk and arm. He was rushed to Crozer-Chester Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead a short time later. Investigators scoured the neighborhood that night and have interviewed a number of people in connection with the cold-blooded murder, but have few leads. Ansari arrived in the United States 20 years ago from Mullappor, India. A longtime member of Chester’s Muslim community, Ansari was a member of Electrician’s Union Local 98. He was a talented mechanic who was also skilled in air-conditioning and refrigeration and worked in construction. At the time of his death he owned the gas station at 12th and Kerlin streets. Ansari was also known for his culinary talents, which Habib described as “phenomenal.” “Brother Ansari was stern against ill conduct, but gentle, always smiling and offering good advice and religious conversation,” Habib said. “He had a strong sense of family and religious conviction.” Habib said the reward fund has been established at a local bank and will be paid to the person who helps police find Ansari’s killer. “It has been a difficult time for us and Mr. Ansari’s family,” he said. Habib believes the arrest of the perpetrator will help heal the tight-knit Muslim community and give its members some closure. “Someone, somebody has to talk,” Habib said. “He was a very, very good man.” Anyone who has information is urged to contact city Detective Todd Nuttall at 610-447-8426.