Video, Images Of Suspect In Slaying Of West Ridge Store Owner Released

CHICAGO — Police released images and surveillance video of a suspect in Monday's homicide of the owner of a West Ridge food and liquor store.

Salim Khamo, 66, of Des Plaines, was shot and killed in a botched robbery of his business, J&K Food & Liquor at 6320 N. Western Ave., shortly before 10 p.m., according to police.

Video released by police shows the gunman rode to the store on a bicycle, leaving the bike behind the business. He appears to be wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt under a black quilted jacket, with a blue face covering and a black beanie.

Before approaching Khamo, he dons sunglasses, the video shows. Once at the counter, he appears to check for other people in the store before reaching into his pocket and pulling out a pistol.

Police said the gunman demanded the clerk hand over money. Khamo refused, and the robber shot him once in the chest.

Khamo, who was a licensed firearm owner, was able to return fire but missed, police said.

Surveillance video shows the gunman rush out of the store and flee south on foot , leaving his bicycle behind.

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Khamo was rushed to St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, where he was pronounced dead shortly before midnight. The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office ruled his death a gun homicide.

Anyone with information related to the incident was asked to contact detectives at 312-744-8261.

The store owner, an Assyrian Christian refugee who immigrated from Iraqi nearly 30 years ago before starting the business with his brother in 2006, had been set to retire in about two weeks, family members told WLS. He had recently purchased a gun because of concerns about crime in the area.

Khamo is survived by his wife, three children and seven grandchildren, according to a statement from his family, which describes him as hard-working and compassionate.

"He left Iraq as a refugee to escape persecution and to build a better life for his family. The store was a testament to his honest work and he was so proud of all the risks he took to provide more for his family," his family said.

"To whomever is responsible for this senseless act of violence, I hope you are brought to justice for taking the life of such a loved and honored man."