Store owner shoots would-be robber

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - Newport News police are asking for the public's help in identifying one of the suspects who tried to rob a grocery store late Friday evening.

Police tell WAVY.com the crime happened at around 11 p.m. at White's Grocery store in the 3300 block of Chestnut Avenue. The two men walked into the business wearing masks; one was holding a shotgun.

The armed suspect held up the store's owner and one of the employees while the other suspect, identified as Barry Lee Hooker, went around the counter. According to police, the store owner then reached for his gun and shot Hooker.

Police say the armed suspect fled the store. Investigators are trying to identify the man, described as a dark skinned, black male, 160lbs., 5’10” with a goatee.

Hooker was taken to the hospital where he is currently in ICU. Police say he had two outstanding warrants for assault and battery. In addition, he now faces several other charges including attempted robbery.

The store owner and employee were not hurt.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.