News Summary
The FBI is actively pursuing leads in the unsolved murder of Palestinian activist Alex Odeh, killed in 1985. With his death classified as a terrorist act, the investigation remains open as the agency seeks justice and honors his legacy. Odeh’s commitment to combating discrimination in America continues to inspire activism among students and advocates for civil rights today.
Santa Ana, California – The FBI is continuing its investigation into the unsolved murder of Palestinian activist Alex Odeh, who was killed on October 11, 1985, at the age of 41. Odeh was the regional director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) and was killed by a rigged pipe bomb that detonated when he opened the door to his office. His murder remains a cold case, now 40 years later, and it stands as a poignant reminder of the discrimination faced by Palestinians in America.
Odeh’s death is often viewed as a symbol of resilience, prompting renewed activism, particularly among students. At the University of California, Irvine, students displayed a banner declaring their campus building “Alex Odeh Hall” during protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza last year. This activism is underscored by a resurgence of anti-Palestinian sentiment and incidents reminiscent of the hostility faced by politically active individuals in the past. For instance, a co-worker of Odeh reported receiving threatening phone calls, illustrating the dangers and risks involved in vocal activism.
The FBI has classified Odeh’s death as a terrorist act and continues to seek public assistance in solving the case. An ongoing investigation remains open, with FBI Assistant Director Akil Davis confirming the agency’s commitment to uncover the truth. The FBI also has a long-standing reward of up to $1 million for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the matter. Despite identifying three suspects linked to the Jewish Defense League (JDL), no formal charges have been made against anyone in connection with Odeh’s murder.
Helena Odeh, Alex’s daughter, spoke to the ongoing pain of losing her father, emphasizing the family’s continuous longing for justice. The ADC honors his legacy by holding an annual memorial banquet in his name. This year, the organization also opened a new office in Anaheim’s Little Arabia District, celebrating Odeh’s commitment to combating anti-Arab rhetoric and supporting the community he served.
The ADC was established in 1980 with the goal of addressing and countering anti-Arab stereotypes prevalent in U.S. media. Michel Shehadeh, who succeeded Odeh in his role, described him as a peaceful, soft-spoken man who had a deep love for poetry and his community. Odeh’s commitment to advocating for Arab Americans was a driving force in his life, underscoring the significant impact he made before his tragic death.
William Lafi Youmans, a filmmaker, created a documentary about Alex Odeh, shedding light on the dangers of being a vocal activist and the continued relevance of his message in today’s context. A private screening of the documentary was held to commemorate the anniversary of Odeh’s murder, reflecting the lasting significance of his life and work.
Odeh’s legacy influences not only the Palestinian community but also serves as a broader reminder of the challenges faced by advocates for civil rights throughout history. As the FBI continues its investigation into this cold case, the hope for justice remains alive among his family, friends, and all those who strive for equality and fairness in the face of adversity.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Alex Odeh’s Unsolved Murder
- UPI: FBI Seeks Help on Odeh Case
- KTLA: Alex Odeh Assassination Report
- Al Jazeera: The Mystery of Alex Odeh’s Murder
- Wikipedia: Alex Odeh
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
