Suspect arrested for fatal smoke shop shooting in Pompano Beach

In the early hours of March 30, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred at the Fire Up Smoke Shop located on East Sample Road in Pompano Beach, Florida, resulting in the death of 27-year-old Sayf Abdelaziz. This incident drew significant attention due to its violent nature and the subsequent investigation leading to the arrest of the alleged shooter. Claurry Paul, 25, was identified as the suspect, and following extensive investigative efforts by the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) homicide detectives, he was apprehended on June 30, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, by the Dekalb County Sheriff's Office. The motive for the shooting remains unclear, but it has raised many questions among the victim's family and the community, highlighting the rising issue of gun violence in public spaces. Sayf Abdelaziz's brother, Hussein Abdelaziz, expressed profound grief and confusion over the loss, stating that his family is searching for answers about the motive behind the shooting. He mentioned that neither money nor goods were taken from the smoke shop, indicating that robbery was not a factor in the crime. Hussein reflected on the devastating impact of his brother's death, calling it an unforgettable trauma that would stay with him for life. Sayf had only been involved in operating the smoke shop for two weeks before the tragic event unfolded. Investigation into the incident revealed that Claurry Paul was indeed the culprit, as BSO used various investigative techniques to track him down. The effectiveness of the Broward Sheriff's Office’s Violence Intervention Proactive Enforcement Response (V.I.P.E.R.) Unit was underscored in the operation that led to Paul's arrest. Following his capture, extradition to Broward County is expected, where he will face serious charges, including first-degree murder with a firearm. This case is being closely followed by the media and the community, as it reflects ongoing concerns regarding public safety and the underlying motives behind such violent acts. As the legal proceedings move forward, the vulnerabilities and grief experienced by Sayf's family stand out glaringly, with Hussain expressing his dismay and desperation for clarity in an incident that has fundamentally altered their lives. Moreover, the suspect's mother, Alberte Paul, has also commented publicly, revealing her own turmoil regarding her son's alleged actions. There remains a significant atmosphere of tension and demand for justice as the investigation progresses.