YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Abdullah Mahdi was shot in the head Wednesday at his store on Youngstown's south side. He was a Youngstown State University graduate, a business owner and a father of seven children.

People who knew and loved Abdullah Mahdi are in shock and mourning their loss.

"Anything. He would have given anything. If the man came and said, 'I need money,' he would have given it. If he said, 'I need a job,' he would have given it. He gave everybody everything. You just had to ask him," said Lamia Alfares, Mahdi's friend.

That's why those who knew and loved Abdullah Mahdi said the crime that took his life was so senseless, and now they're crying out for justice.

"He leaves behind seven girls and his dad. His mom had passed. He's their sole supporter. All we want for Abdullah is justice," said Banan Imashat, Mahdi's friend.

Witnesses in the store told police that Larry McDonald, 19, came into Reema's Fashion, that sells clothing, cell phones and accessories, saying he had "$200 to spend". That statement sent up a red flag to Mahdi and his staff for good reason.

"His other business had been robbed the day before. The guy said the same statement up there. So he probably got worried and walked up to investigate and see what was going on and what happened," said Michael Nizami, Mahdi's friend.

Detectives said not only had Mahdi's Belmont Avenue store been robbed on Tuesday at gunpoint, the south side store had been burglarized overnight. The surveillance system disabled, cash and other items stolen. So, it's no wonder he was on high alert.

"One of the customers in the store, also got a bad feeling about this suspect, walked around, engaged him in conversation and saw a gun in his pocket," said Detective Sgt. Ron Rodway, Youngstown Police Department.

That's when the store owner was warned about the firearm and grabbed his gun. A short time later there was an exchange of gunfire.

McDonald remains hospitalized at St. Elizabeth Health Center after being shot in the exchange of gunfire.

Funeral arrangements have been announced for Mahdi.  On Friday, at 4:00 p.m., a memorial service will be held for Mahdi at Mosque Hall.

Official charges could be filed against McDonald as soon as Friday.