The death of local businessman Carroll Oliver has rocked the Fifth Ward community of Houston to its core. The 68-year old businessman and community leader was gunned down in an attempted robbery at his McDonald’s restaurant at Lockwood and the East Freeway in the historic Fifth Ward community.
As Oliver was leaving his store in the morning, as he always did to make a cash deposit at the bank, witnesses say a group of young men driving a white sports utility vehicle (SUV) attempted to rob him at gunpoint. Investigators believe it may have been a current or former employee, familiar with Oliver’s routine, who was lying in wait for him when he came out the restaurant.
Oliver, a former Chicago police officer who was licensed to carry a firearm, pulled his weapon and tried to defend fend off his attackers, but was fatally wounded by one of the assailants.
Crime Stoppers has increased their usual reward from $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of suspects in their cases to a reward of up to $35,000. Anyone with information concerning the case is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 713.222.TIPS or the HPD Homicide Division at 713.308.3600.
Oliver was a huge philanthropist who gave charitable contributions to various community organizations; gave away scholarships; employed hundreds of youth and ex-offenders; and leaves a legacy built on his general giving spirit.
Oliver would routinely feed the homeless people who loitered near his restaurants, and always greeted the community with a huge smile. He will be missed.
Upon hearing of Oliver’s senseless murder, the No More Bloodshed Movement, under the leadership of Pastor E.A. Deckard and Activist Deric Muhammad, held a candlelight vigil at the spot where he was murdered.
“We are angry, but we plan to turn our anger into positive energy so that we can save this community,” said Pastor Deckard.
The vigil was held to call attention to the need for unity amongst various factions of the community and to stop the bloodshed plaguing Fifth Ward and other inner-city neighborhoods.
“What’s sad is that if Mr. Oliver’s killers had simply asked him for whatever it is they needed, he probably would have simply given it to them anyway,” said Muhammad. “They thought they were robbing an individual, but they have really robbed us all.”
The No More Bloodshed Movement is planning a Stop the Violence Weekend in Fifth Ward in Carroll Oliver’s honor real soon. For more details go to www.nomorebs.org.