A man is shot dead while protecting a friend Robert Michael Gnizak, a 49-year-old resident of Lorain, Ohio, was tragically killed on August 14, 2016, in an incident that occurred in the drive-thru of a Taco Bell located at 3671 Oberlin Avenue. On the night of the incident, Robert was being driven home by a female friend after they stopped to get some food. As Robert exited the vehicle to better see the menu, a man approached the car, demanding money from the female driver at gunpoint.
When Robert intervened to protect his friend, he was fatally shot by the assailant. After shooting Robert, the suspect searched the vehicle for valuables before fleeing on foot.
The suspect in this case has been described as a Black male of thin to medium build, standing approximately 6 feet tall, and was reportedly wearing a yellow or tan shirt along with tan or khaki pants. Despite efforts by law enforcement to gather more information, the individual responsible for this violent act remains unidentified. The Lorain Police Department, with the support of Taco Bell, has offered a $15,000 reward for any information that could lead to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crime or has relevant information to come forward. The hope is that increased visibility and community support might bring some closure to Robert's family and lead to justice being served. The Lorain Police Department continues to work diligently on this case, calling on members of the public to assist in their investigation.
