D.C. police are asking the community for help as they search for two men who gunned down a Brookland convenience store manager during a robbery on Saturday. Raj Patel, 46, was working at the Newton Foodmart at 3600 12th Street NE, when two men burst in and shot him around 6:40 p.m. The two men were captured on surveillance cameras set up inside the shop, and police have released those images in the hope that someone will recognize the pair.
There is a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the two men, who police say should be considered armed and dangerous. Ward 5 Councilmember Harry Thomas, Jr. is reportedly attempting to double the reward in this case. Police are asking that anyone with information on the two men contact them at 202-727-9099 or 1-888-919-CRIME (1-888-919-2746), or anonymously via 1-866-411-TIPS.
Last night, a candlelight vigil was held in memory of Patel outside of the store, which remains closed. A funeral for Patel will be held on Thursday.