The family of a man who was fatally shot at a Dallas Costco is pushing for the juvenile who pulled the trigger to be tried as an adult.
Ali Elbanna was shot and killed on Nov 16 after two men, a woman and a 16-year-old robbed him. He was loading groceries he just purchased from Costco into his car when they ambushed him.
Elbanna was a Palestinian naturalized citizen who lived in North Texas for over 30 years. He owned a small wholesale business in Arlington and was an active member of the local Muslim community.
Following Elbanna’s murder, officials arrested and charged the four individuals with capital murder. However, the 16-year-old, who police say pulled the trigger, would still be considered a juvenile in court.
Prosecutors can ask juvenile court judges to move the cases of minors ages 14 to 16 to adult court based on several factors, including age and the nature of the crime. This judge would grant an adult certification in this case.
The Dallas County District Attorney’s prosecution team requested the certification, but on Monday the court reset it. The juvenile certification hearing was postponed to a date that is to be determined.
With no date, it’s possible the trial could start and the boy would be tried as a juvenile.
The Elbanna family gathered at the Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center to raise awareness about the case. They also hope to push for the judge to certify the juvenile as an adult prior to him standing for trial.
Elbanna leaves behind his wife, who is a Fort Worth native, and five children.
