A breakthrough in a long-unsolved murder case has brought a measure of closure to the family and friends of Kemal Kolenovic, a promising young boxer whose life was tragically cut short on December 31, 2006. After evading capture for nearly 18 years, Ahmed Gashi, the suspect in Kolenovic’s death, has been arrested in Kosovo and extradited to the United States.
The Bronx District Attorney’s office issued an international arrest warrant for gashi, who was located in Kosovo. U.S. Marshals collaborated with Kosovar law enforcement to apprehend him. Gashi arrived in New York City on Friday morning and was immediately charged with murder.
The arrest follows a chilling incident outside the now-closed Moonlight Bar in the Bronx. According to witnesses, a dispute erupted between several men, and Kolenovic, attempting to de-escalate the situation, tragically became the victim. “My nephew wanted to buy them a drink to keep them from fighting,” recounted Tony Mujovit, Kolenovic’s uncle. “He was never part of the fight. He got killed for nothing.”
The altercation spilled onto the street, with Gashi, described by police at the time as a young man with a shaved head, initially leaving the scene.However, he returned in a dark-colored SUV, striking Kolenovic from behind as he stood on the sidewalk. Emergency responders transported Kolenovic to St. Barnabas Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Kolenovic was a rising star in the boxing world, holding the New York State welterweight title before moving up in weight class. His notable record included 10 wins (five by knockout), six losses, and two draws.just two weeks before his death, he secured a frist-round knockout victory over Ronnie Glover at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, Long Island.His trainer, Raymond Paolillo, remembered him fondly: “He was one of the toughest kids I ever trained. He would never back down.”
Gashi’s arrest marks a notable development in this long-standing cold case. The details surrounding the incident and the subsequent inquiry remain under scrutiny as the legal process unfolds. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and the unwavering pursuit of justice by law enforcement agencies.
A Long-Awaited Arrest: Interview with Tony Mujovit
Interviewer: Tony, thank you for speaking with us today. It’s been almost eighteen years as the tragic loss of your nephew, Kemal Kolenovic.How does it feel to know that Ahmed Gashi has finally been arrested and extradited to the US to face charges?
Tony Mujovit: It brings a sense of relief, but it’s also bittersweet. No amount of justice can bring Kemal back. He was such a kind young man, and losing him so tragically was devastating for our family. However, knowing that Gashi is finally being held responsible gives us a sense of closure that we’ve longed for.
interviewer: Can you tell us about Kemal? What was he like?
Tony Mujovit: Kemal was a bright light. He was a talented boxer, holding the New York State welterweight title. But more importantly,he was a good person. He was always trying to help others, and he never backed down from doing what he thought was right. As you know, he was trying to de-escalate a fight that night when he was killed. That was just Kemal. He never wanted to see anyone get hurt.
Interviewer: The arrest of Gashi was a result of a joint effort between US forces and Kosovar law enforcement. How do you feel knowing that law enforcement never gave up on Kemal’s case?
Tony Mujovit: It means the world to us. Knowing that they kept fighting for justice for Kemal, even after all these years. Their dedication gives us some comfort. It shows that his life mattered, and his death wasn’t in vain.
Interviewer: what message would you like to send to others who are experiencing a similar loss, perhaps still searching for answers in a cold case?
Tony Mujovit: Don’t give up hope. Keep fighting for justice. Kemal’s case shows that eventually, the truth can come to light.
Interviewer: Thank you, Tony, for sharing your thoughts with us.
