On October 29, 2022, 45-year-old Dzemal Cardakovic was fatally shot in a road rage incident on South Willow Street in Manchester, New Hampshire. The shooting occurred around 3:30 p.m. near the Mall of New Hampshire. Cardakovic, a truck driver originally from Bosnia, was driving his regular route when the confrontation took place. His 12-year-old son was present in the vehicle at the time and witnessed the tragic event.
Authorities arrested 22-year-old Tyrese Harris of Manchester in
connection with the shooting. He was charged with two counts of second-degree murder for knowingly and recklessly causing Cardakovic's death. An autopsy confirmed that Cardakovic died from a gunshot wound to the face and neck, and his death was ruled a homicide.
In January 2023, Harris was indicted by the Hillsborough County Grand Jury on charges including second-degree murder, reckless conduct, and falsifying physical evidence. The latter charge stemmed from allegations that Harris disposed of the handgun used in the shooting to hinder the investigation. He remained held without bail pending trial.
The trial commenced in July 2023, during which Harris claimed self-defense, stating he feared for his life and that of his pregnant girlfriend, who was a passenger in his car. However, prosecutors argued that Harris had other options and that his actions were unjustified. The jury found Harris guilty on all counts, including second-degree murder.
On August 31, 2023, Harris was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for the second-degree murder charge. He also received consecutive suspended sentences of 3½ to 7 years for the charges of reckless conduct and falsifying physical evidence. The case underscored the severe consequences of road rage and the importance of de-escalation in confrontational situations.
Cardakovic's family, including his daughter Jasmina and son Amel, remembered him as a kind and selfless individual who immigrated from Bosnia in the early 2000s and worked diligently to provide for his family. His untimely death left a profound impact on the community and highlighted the devastating effects of senseless violence.
