WBOC-TV 16, Delmarvas News Leader, FOX 21 - Deli Owner Shot Twice in Armed Robbery

Deli Owner Shot Twice in Armed Robbery

SALISBURY, Md.- Salisbury police say the 56-year-old owner of the East Side Deli on East Main Street underwent surgery after being shot during an early Monday evening robbery of his business.

Police say the shooting occurred shortly before 6 p.m. When officers arrived at the scene, they spoke with a witness and the victim, who they identified as Gregory David Knowles of Delmar, Md.  Emergency crews took Knowles to Peninsula Regional Medical Center, where he was treated for gunshot wounds to the hand and abdomen.  Police say Knowles is in stable condition at PRMC.

Police say witnesses told them a single suspect entered the business and approached Knowles with a handgun, described as a revolver.  The suspect reportedly fired twice and took cash from a register at the rear of the business.

Police say the suspect ran out of the business and fled east along the front of the building. 

The Wicomico County Sheriff's Office used a K-9 unit to follow the suspect but came back unsuccessful.

Investigators describe the suspect as a black male, 5-foot-10, thin with a light complexion, wearing a black hoodie, black jeans, black tennis shoes and a black ski mask.

Salisbury police say they have added more officers on the streets.  The department has also asked county and state agencies to help patrol convenience stores and fast food restaurants.

Some residents say recent crime has forced them to stay inside their homes.

"You've got to be careful this day and time. I don't think it would be a good time to travel at night," said James Hambrick, a local painter.

Long-time customers of the East Side Deli describe Knowles as a family man.

"He is one of the finest gentleman I've ever met," says Salisbury resident Earl Bethards who coached Little League with Knowles several years ago.

If you know anything about the shooting and robbery, call the Salisbury Police Department at (410) 548-3165 or Crime Solvers at (410) 548-1776.  Information can be given anonymously.