The totalled Aston Martin automobile in Beirut belonging to Tlais is shown following an accident that occurred after he was shot while driving.

BEIRUT – On Friday at 3 p.m. in his home village of Brital Baalbeck, funeral services were held and condolences were offered for Hawlo Tlais, the vice chairman of General Organization for promotion of investments in Lebanon. Tlais is an Arab American who lived in Dearborn for many years before he moved to Lebanon seven years ago. He has family in Dearborn and often visits. 

The mystery surrounding his death and possible murder, which occurred last Tuesday night, has remained, however. 

Tlais was driving in the ‘triangle of Concord’ in the Verdun area of Beirut when he was struck in the head by a bullet that pierced the roof of his car, an Aston Martin, according to a report from the leading Annhar daily newspaper. The shooting caused him to crash into a tree. 

Tlais, who got his start as a successful businessman in Dearborn, visited the Michigan city two weeks ago to see family and friends. His tragic death shocked the local community as he was preparing for his wedding which was scheduled for Saturday in Lebanon. 

He is survived by two daughters, three brothers, five sisters and his mother.

Memorial services will be held this Sunday at 3:00 pm at the Islamic Center of America in Dearborn, MI.