Family of cab driver killed in southwest Houston wants answers, justice

The family of a cab driver who was shot to death outside his southwest Houston home wants justice and police need the public's help with any information that can lead to his killer.

Police said the 58-year-old victim, Siryon Ishmael, pulled into the driveway of his townhome in the Royal Park community off Azeem Avenue around 11:30 p.m. on Sept. 28. after working an overnight shift driving his cab. That is when someone approached him.

A witness reportedly heard a commotion outside, with someone demanding money. Moments later, a gun was fired.

The victim's roommate was upstairs praying when he heard the gunshot. He stepped outside, where he discovered Ishmael unconscious with a gunshot wound in his lower chest.

 Ishmael was rushed to the emergency room, where he later died.

Three months after the shooting, his family wants answers.

"This is Christmas, this is the time of year and we're asking you to give us come closure," a family member said.  "What you see around here is love and support.  What you really don't see is the void that has been gone and taken away from us."

Police believe Ishmael was killed in an attempted robbery, although nothing was stolen.

"The nature of the crime has got us bewildered," said Baindu Siryon Sandimanie, the victim's sister.  "We don't know what to do and even at this point we've heard nothing about any strong leads.  We are devastated."

Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest and/or charging of a suspect in this  case.  Anonymous tips can be called into 713-222-TIPS.