Assailant sought in May 19 shooting of North Toledo restaurant owner

6/21/2008

Toledo police are seeking information about a robbery May 19 in North Toledo during which a restaurant owner was shot while giving a man a ride, authorities said.

Richard Lawrence, 77, was treated at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center for two gunshot wounds, police said.

A man walked into New Chet's Restaurant, 1024 East Manhattan Blvd., about 8:15 a.m., saying he needed help with a disabled vehicle. Mr. Lawrence offered to give him a ride. During the drive, the young man told Mr. Lawrence he was going to rob him, police said.

The two struggled, and the robber fired three times, striking Mr. Lawrence once in the right arm and once in the upper left chest. The assailant was described as black, between 17 and 20 years old, and wearing a red shirt.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Crime Stopper program at 419-255-1111. Callers may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.