Jul 14, 2008 10:50 am US/Eastern
Police Seek Leads In Deadly Waterfront Robbery
Reporting
Bob Allen
WEST HOMESTEAD (KDKA) ―
Allegheny County homicide detectives are seeking leads after a gunman killed a 19-year-old kitchen worker during a restaurant robbery at the Waterfront.
Police say it happened at about 12:40 a.m. Sunday while two employees were closing Damon's Restaurant.
A gunman forced his way in through the back door and shot kitchen working Brian Lee, of West Mifflin.
He then ordered the manager to give him an undetermined amount of money before leaving.
Lee was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
The victim's father did not want to speak on camera but described his son as a good kid who was trying to find his way in life.
West Homestead Mayor John Dindak says the shooting hits close to home.
He has a granddaughter who works late at night at a Waterfront business.
He says extra police were hired when the Waterfront opened, but says mall security needs to step up.
"When these businesses are ready to close late night they should call the security people and have them standing there by the door and escort them to their automobile where ever they may be in the parking lot until their in it and they're gone," he said. "I can't spend my time down there. I've got the rest of the town to patrol."
Meanwhile, Waterfront property managers, Diversified Realty said in a statement: "While last night's tragedy did not occur on the shopping center's property, we are cooperating with local authorities. We have increased our security patrols and will continue to work with the municipalities to supplement their efforts."
Damon's Grill also released a statement saying they are "extremely saddened" by the tragic shooting.
"We are supporting his family at this difficult time time and we ask that anyone who has information about what happened immediately contact authorities."
The restaurant will remain closed until Tuesday out of respect for Lee and his family.
The suspect is described only as a large black male wearing dark clothing and a mask.
Anyone with information is asked to call Allegheny County homicide detectives.
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