Indian-origin businessman Suresh Patel was shot and killed during an armed robbery at a liquor store in Jackson, Tennessee, while his 19-year-old daughter was reportedly standing beside him.
The fatal shooting occurred at approximately 9 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, at Ridgecrest Cellars Wine and Spirits. The business is located at 2880 Ridgecrest Road Extended in Jackson.
Officers from the Jackson Police Department reached the store after receiving a report of a robbery and shooting. Patel, who had been struck by gunfire, was found dead inside the business.
Police identified the victim as 56-year-old Suresh Patel. Indian media reports said he was originally from Gujarat. Sources cited by local news outlet WBBJ said Patel had taken over Ridgecrest Cellars as its new owner only three days before he was killed.
Suresh Patel shooting in Jackson
Witnesses told investigators that a masked man entered the store, displayed a firearm and demanded cash from the employees. The robber reportedly received the money but then fired several shots inside the business.
Patel was struck and died at the scene. His 19-year-old daughter was reportedly standing beside him when the gunman opened fire, according to sources quoted by WBBJ.
A 70-year-old employee who had reportedly worked at Ridgecrest Cellars since it opened also fell during the incident and suffered a broken wrist. No other gunshot injuries were reported.
Police have not publicly explained why the robber allegedly opened fire after receiving the money. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.
Some early reports described Patel as a store employee. However, WBBJ’s follow-up report cited sources who said he had recently taken over the business as its new owner. Jackson Police officially identified Patel as 56 years old, although some Indian media reports gave a different age.
Using the police-confirmed age avoids presenting conflicting information as established fact.
Jackson Police search for robbery suspect
The Jackson Police Department released surveillance images of the wanted suspect and appealed to the public for assistance in identifying him.
Police described the suspect as a Black man wearing a gray hoodie, jeans and black work-style boots. His face was concealed by what investigators described as a paintball-style mask.
After the shooting, the gunman reportedly ran from the store and fled the area in a white sedan. Authorities warned that the unidentified suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.
Police have advised residents not to approach anyone they believe may be involved. Investigators are reviewing available surveillance footage and seeking information from witnesses, nearby residents and motorists who may have noticed suspicious activity around Ridgecrest Road.
No arrest or public identification of the suspect had been announced at the time of the latest police update.
Patel’s killing has raised concern among members of the Indian-American and Gujarati communities, particularly families operating convenience stores, liquor stores and fuel stations. Such businesses can face an increased robbery risk because they often remain open late, handle cash and operate with limited staff.
Authorities have not released evidence suggesting Patel was targeted because of his Indian origin. The case is being investigated as a fatal armed robbery, and describing it as a hate crime without supporting evidence would be inaccurate.
