By Moses Joshua 
Community Stunned After Prime 7 Co-Owner Killed Outside Commerce Township Restaurant
A Night Meant for Football Turns into Tragedy
What began as a routine Detroit Lions watch party at a popular Oakland County restaurant ended in heartbreak Sunday night, after the co-owner and manager of Prime 7 in Commerce Township was fatally shot outside the establishment. The incident unfolded shortly before 10 p.m., sending shockwaves through the tight-knit community that knew him simply as “Franco.”
Authorities confirmed that Francesk “Franco” Shkambi, 44, was found on the restaurant’s patio with fatal gunshot wounds. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene around 9:40 p.m., but Shkambi could not be saved.
Suspect Surrenders Minutes After Shooting
Investigators say Shkambi was called outside by a man before the shooting occurred. According to reports, the suspect turned himself in approximately 20 minutes later, and detectives recovered the handgun believed to be used in the incident. Authorities revealed the weapon had previously been reported stolen.
Metro Detroit Crime Report identified the suspect as Tonin Pjetri, 65, a resident of Farmington Hills.
In a devastating twist, Shkambi’s family told reporters the suspect was no stranger to them.
“It was a friend,” nephew Mark Gjura told CBS Detroit. He explained that Pjetri had even shared meals with the family at Prime 7 in the past. Gjura described the frantic moments after learning of the shooting, recalling how relatives rushed to the hospital hoping for good news that never came.
Remembering “Franco”: A Respected Host and Community Figure
Shkambi, originally from Shkodër, Albania, was known widely across the area not only as a business owner but as a warm, generous presence whose support for the community extended far beyond his restaurant’s doors. The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce honored his legacy with a heartfelt message, noting:
“Franco was known for his generosity, warmth, and genuine commitment to supporting the community he served. His presence made a meaningful impact, and he will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
The statement reflected the deep loss felt throughout the region — among patrons, friends, and colleagues who considered Prime 7 a second home.
A Life Marked by Redemption and Community Impact
Shkambi’s journey in recent years had been one of rebuilding and renewed purpose. According to WWJ’s Charlie Langton, he had been released after a sentence commutation in December 2024. Despite past legal challenges, he reintegrated into the community and dedicated himself to running Prime 7 as a welcoming local hub.
His sudden death not only leaves behind grieving loved ones but also halts the progress of a man who had been working to build a better chapter of his life.
Community Awaits Justice and Answers
As investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, many in Commerce Township are grappling with one haunting question: What could have driven a longtime friend to such an act?
While the legal process moves forward, one thing remains certain — the Lakes Area community has lost a beloved figure whose influence extended far beyond the walls of his restaurant. Franco Shkambi’s legacy of kindness, dedication, and resilience will be remembered long after the tragedy that claimed his life.