DETROIT – The owner of a Coney Island restaurant was shot and killed Thursday morning in an attempted robbery in Southwest Detroit.
The shooting happened at about 9:30 a.m. at Detroit Coney Island at the corner Schaefer Highway and South Ethel Street.
Frano Juncaj, 59 was shot once in the chest and was found by the front door.
He ran the family business with his brother, Tony Juncaj, for more than 35 years. They immigrated to the United States in 1975.
Police said it appears to be an attempted robbery but nothing was taken. Police believe the shooter may have panicked or knew the victim.
The windows at the restaurant are bullet proof but Juncaj often left his door propped open so regulars could place their orders quickly, according to patrons.
The restaurant was full at 8:30 a.m.. Police believe there may have been a lull in the morning rush and that's when the killer approached.
"He trusted the community," Detroit police assistant chief Steven Dolunt said. "From what I'm understanding, he was a very friendly guy and he's been here forever so this is a tough one."
Stay with Local 4 and ClickonDetroit.com for updates to this developing story.