Babul Kumer Saha, a 41-year-old man of Bangladeshi descent, was tragically killed on April 8, 2014, during a robbery at the Prime Station gas station in Maple Heights, Ohio. Saha, who had moved to the United States from Bangladesh less than two years prior, was known for his kind-hearted nature and dedication to his family. He left behind a wife and two young children, aged four and six months.
The incident occurred just before 11:00 p.m.
when a gunman stormed into the convenience store and shot Saha in the head at close range. Surveillance footage captured the suspect, who then took money from the cash register before fleeing the scene. Saha was found passed out behind the counter by a customer who immediately called the police. Despite efforts to save him, Saha was pronounced dead at MetroHealth Medical Center.
The investigation into Saha's death led to the arrest of Slater Howell III, a suspect linked to the crime through DNA evidence. TrueAllele technology was used to analyze a complex DNA mixture found at the crime scene, which included a plastic bag touched by the shooter. The analysis provided a match statistic of 98 thousand for Howell, leading to his conviction. Howell, who was attempting to join the Heartless Felons gang, was also accused of killing Cleveland firefighter Theodore Wright. On September 12, 2017, Howell was found guilty of Saha's murder and sentenced to life in prison.
The community rallied for justice in the wake of Saha's death, mourning the loss of a beloved and hardworking individual. Saha's dedication to his family and his friendly demeanor made his untimely death all the more senseless and tragic.
