Local Chef Shot, Killed During Robbery In Baltimore
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A local chef gunned down by robbers, despite his cooperation. Baltimore City police are looking for the gunmen in the violent attack of a Baltimore man. George Solis has the latest on the investigation and reaction from close friends.
Police tell WJZ Bates he was shot and killed during a robbery right in his own neighborhood. Early Wednesday morning police responding to Pen Lucy Road to find 46-year-old Michael Bates suffering from a gunshot wound to the neck. The aftermath of a robbery, where police say the victim cooperated fully.
"He complied. He actually had his hands up and complied with the robbers, gave them what they asked for," said T.J. Smith with Baltimore City Police.
Police tell WJZ, Bates was in his car when 3 suspects cornered him. After being shot, Bates attempted to find safety in a nearby building before collapsing. He was taken to a local hospital where he later died.
"We all have to be fed up and sick of it this is someone who seemed to be doing all the right things and trying to make people happy," said Smith.
Bates was a well-known and respected Baltimore chef. Close friends describe him as a man whose loved of cooking was only surpassed by his love of people.
A group of those to him sat around smoking cigars and reminiscing for their lost friend."Cigar was his love, but the passion was cooking and people," said Bates' friend Kevin Timmons.
Timmons and company consider themselves Bates' extended family.
"Big heart, very big heart," said Timmons.
His friends are shocked by the loss. "I sat on the side of the bed and I got back into bed, I couldn't believe it," said Al Johnson. A feeling that will sink in by a noticeable absence.
"It's definitely a big hit, it's a void," said Timmons.
His friends say Michael Bates was a veteran working on a cooking program to help other fellow veterans.
Those who see anyone speak about this incident on social media or have any information are asked it to police.
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