Seattle Police are asking for the public’s help identifying a suspect who violently robbed a Pioneer Square market on 26 March, striking two employees with a wine bottle and leaving one in a coma, where they remain as of 15 April.
The attack occurred at approximately 3:35 p.m. at Saveway Market in the 100 block of Occidental Avenue South. According to police, the suspect attempted to leave the store with a stolen bottle of wine before striking an employee in the head with it. Several employees pursued the suspect as he fled the store, and police said he struck a second employee outside, causing that person to fall and hit the pavement.
One victim, aged 27, suffered significant facial injuries including missing teeth. The other victim, aged 35, sustained severe head trauma and fell into a coma. Surveillance footage captured the suspect inside the store and during the initial assault.
The suspect fled on foot and has not been located. Police said conventional investigative methods have been exhausted and are now turning to the public for assistance. Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest and charges.
“Police can’t be everywhere all the time, and somebody knows who did this,” said Jim Fuda of Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound. “Maybe someone saw him leaving the store or recognised him elsewhere. Even if you think your tip is not important, let the detective decide. That information could be what helps close the case.”
The suspect is described as a Black man between 20 and 30 years old, approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall with a slim build. He was wearing a white T-shirt as a head covering, a white face mask, a white long-sleeve shirt with a rectangular logo on the front, black sweatpants, and black athletic shoes. Police warned the public not to approach or confront the suspect, describing him as dangerous.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Seattle Police Department Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000. Anyone who spots the suspect should call 911 immediately.
