Sources: repair of an old car may be involved in killing of Orland Park man

Police are investigating the murder of Lockport resident Ibrahim Nofal, 28, who was reported missing Tuesday July 13. Nofal operated an auto repair shop at 15563 S. 70th Court in Orland Park.

Nofal's body was discovered Saturday morning by hikers in Pilcher Park in Joliet. The coroner confirmed his identity early Tuesday.

A video shows a silver or gray 1996 to 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee pulling in to Nofal's shop around 6:30 pm last week. It drove away a short time later. Orland Park police, according to reports, believe Nofal was in the car.

Details on the murder are sketchy and his family and relatives are in shock. Services have been held for him at the local mosques.

Sources are saying that it is possible that there was a disagreement involving the repair of a vehicle that Nofal had sold to a customer, but there is no confirmation. Police have declined to speculate on the reason for the apparent kidnapping or the cause of death which remains under investigation.

Police are asking if anyone knows any information on the death to call Orland Park police at 708-349-4111, Joliet Police at 815-724-3100 or the Will County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-323-6734. The family has offered a $50,000 reward for information on his whereabouts.

Reports say the reward may be increased in light of his death, and to anyone who provides information leading  to the arrest of the individual or individuals involved.

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Condolences in horrific and sad tragedy in car accident

Bryan Sord is one of the most generous people we've met over the years. The owner of several great restaurants including 94 West, Sord has been a philanthropist who has helped many charities and good causes. His parents owned a very popular restaurant that served the green pasta in Chicago. It was a place where I found great memories going with my mom and dad when I was young.

So it was even more painful to read this weekend that his son, Nicholas, 21, was involved in a tragic car accident that took the life of Jessica Mejia, 20, of New Lenox who was in the car with Nicholas. Our condolences go out to the Mejia family and the Sord family. New Years is supposed to be a good time for people when they can look forward to better times. This will be a terribly difficult time for both families. (Read story)

Both families need our prayers and we wish them all the best as they navigate through these terrible events.

-- Ray Hanania
www.RadioChicagoland.com