A sixteen-year-old boy’s life was brutally cut short in a pre-dawn shooting in Stoney Creek, a tragedy now linked to a ruthless conflict tearing through the tow truck industry. Faizaan Awan, of York Region, died from multiple gunshot wounds after a harrowing chase along Highway 8 on March 6th, 2025.
Police have charged five men with first-degree murder in connection with Awan’s death, and attempted murder related to two other occupants of his vehicle who miraculously survived the attack. The investigation, described as complex and far-reaching, involved searches in both Hamilton and Ottawa.
Among those accused, two are refugee claimants and one is a permanent resident, revealing a disturbing layer to the case. Mohammad Aburas, 26, of Ottawa, and Sari Nawabit, 36, of Hamilton, are seeking refugee status, while Rami Qasem, 42, of Hamilton, has permanent residency.
The shooting wasn’t a random act of violence, but a “targeted attack” stemming from a bitter feud between rival tow truck companies. Detectives believe the accused were involved in escalating conflicts within the Southern Ontario towing industry, a world plagued by intimidation and violence.
Awan was driving a red Acura SUV when he was pursued by multiple vehicles for several kilometers before the shooting erupted. Officers arriving at the scene discovered his vehicle alongside a white Kia sedan, both bearing the scars of the violent encounter.
Investigators have uncovered connections between the accused and a defunct towing company called Provincial Tow. Two of the men are reportedly members of the family that owned the business, another is married into the family, and the remaining two were employees.
Just days before the shooting, Provincial Tow itself was the target of arson, suggesting a pattern of escalating retaliation. Authorities believe the accused were attempting to protect their property when the confrontation with Awan occurred.
The motive for why Awan was in the Stoney Creek area remains unclear, and police have confirmed he wasn’t employed by any tow truck companies at the time of his death. The investigation is ongoing, with detectives actively seeking additional individuals who may have played a role in the tragic events of that night.
Detective-Staff Sergeant Rob Di Ianni emphasized that the investigation is far from over, stating, “We believe there are additional individuals involved and we are actively working to identify and locate anyone else who played a role.” The search for answers continues, as a community mourns the loss of a young life.
The case has also brought to light concerns regarding the vetting process for refugee claimants and asylum seekers, with sources expressing frustration over perceived obstacles to preventing entry and deportation. These concerns, however, remain separate from the ongoing murder investigation.
