Murder suspect arrested in cold case of boxer run over in NYC
- Ahmet Gashi, identified as the suspect in Kemal Kolenovic's death, was arrested after nearly 18 years of evading law enforcement.
- The fatal incident occurred on New Year's Eve in 2006 when Gashi drove onto the sidewalk during a bar dispute, striking Kolenovic, who was an innocent bystander.
- This arrest highlights the ongoing pursuit of justice for Kolenovic and brings attention back to the impacts of such violent actions on communities.
In a significant development regarding an 18-year-old cold case in the Bronx, New York, Kemal Kolenovic, a professional welterweight boxer from Montenegro, was killed during a car rampage on New Year’s Eve in 2006. The incident began outside a bar on Belmont Avenue when a dispute escalated into a violent confrontation. Ahmet Gashi, the main suspect in the case, allegedly drove his Mitsubishi SUV onto the sidewalk, intending to strike two men he was arguing with. Tragically, he accidentally struck Kolenovic, who was an innocent bystander in the altercation. Kolenovic suffered severe injuries after being launched into a tree and was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to a hospital. Following the incident, Ahmet Gashi evaded law enforcement by fleeing to the Balkans, leading to a protracted cold case. Gashi successfully avoided capture for nearly two decades, prompting a considerable amount of frustration and grief for Kolenovic's family and friends. The police had sought to interview Gashi shortly after the incident, but his disappearance complicated efforts to bring him to justice. Over the years, investigators maintained interest in the case, seeking new leads and updates on Gashi's whereabouts. Earlier this year, Gashi was apprehended by Serbian police and subsequently transferred to U.S. Marshals custody. His arrival at Central Booking in the Bronx marked a significant turning point for the case, as it re-opened discussions around accountability for Kolenovic’s death. The case has drawn attention due to the long duration of Gashi’s elusiveness, illustrating the challenges law enforcement faces in resolving cold cases. As Gashi faces charges of murder, the Bronx community is reminded of the tragedy that occurred on that fateful night and the long-awaited pursuit of justice for Kemal Kolenovic. The repercussions of the case extend beyond legal ramifications. Kolenovic’s untimely death not only robbed his family of a loved one but also silenced the potential future contributions he could have made to the boxing world and his community. The incident raises questions about public safety and the impact of vehicular violence on innocent lives, highlighting the necessity for continued vigilance in law enforcement and community safety initiatives.