Chaldean-American Community Mourns Loss of Marvan Batoo and Ghaith Baban in Shelby Township Shooting

Marvan Talal-Razooqi Batoo and Ghaith Baban

The Chaldean-American community in Metro Detroit is grappling with profound grief following the tragic November 7 shooting at Star Auto Sales in Shelby Township. Marvan Talal-Razooqi Batoo, the dealership owner, and his friend Ghaith Baban were killed in what authorities describe as a targeted attack. Both men were cherished members of the Chaldean community, whose loss has left a deep void among families and friends across the region. 

Terrance Jermaine Sandles of Houston has been charged with first-degree murder and related offenses, accused of returning to the dealership after a dispute over a used Hummer and fatally shooting both men before fleeing. For many in the community, the incident resonates with painful irony, particularly in Baban’s case, as he had hoped for refuge in the U.S. only to be struck down by senseless violence.

Community leaders and neighbors continue to mourn, calling for justice while honoring the lives and legacies of Batoo and Baban, who were known not only for their professional contributions but for their unwavering dedication to family and faith.