Photos of suspects in violent assault of business owner released

Owen Sound police have released photos of two suspects in an assault that left the owner of a downtown restaurant with critical injuries.

His brother Anis Rahman, who manages the restaurant, said Sharif asked three men who were eating inside the restaurant to pay because it was closing soon.

The men argued, didn’t pay and left the restaurant, Anas said. Owen Sound police said the men assaulted Sharif Rahman outside the store and fled the area.

Police are looking a man about five feet 10 inches to six feet two inches tall with a medium build and short dark hair. He was wearing a blue T-shirt, black shorts and black running shoes.

The second suspect is of a similar height and build and has short brown hair that was longer on top. He was wearing an orange T-shirt, black shorts and black running shoes.

A man in his late 40s to mid 50s with curly hair is also being sought, police said. He was wearing shorts and a T-shirt.

Investigators believe the men got into a grey or blue 2000s model Ford Escape or Mazda Tribute and left the area.

Anyone who has more information or video recordings is asked to contact Owen Sound police at 519-376-1234 or Det.-Const. Geoff Bridgeman at gbridgeman@owensoundpolice.com.

A gofundme set up to support Sharif Rahman, his family and his business, had surpassed $124,000 on Thursday afternoon.

Rahman is being treated in a London hospital. There was no update Thursday on his condition.

On Wednesday evening, a walking vigil through downtown Owen Sound attracted hundreds of people, who carried candles, cellphones and flashlights along a route that passed by The Curry House, where a large display of flowers and notes adorn the front step.

The walk was organized earlier this week “in support and in solidarity with those who live and work and make their livelihood in our downtown, and of course Sharif Rahman and his family and staff.”

Another event, called Drumming for Sharif, is planned on Friday, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at the farmers’ market.

“We invite you to drum with us to recognize the power of community – the power to heal, the power to unite, to support a local family and take a stand against prejudice,” it says on the Drumming for Sharif events page on Facebook. The event is giving people the opportunity to drum, talk, and/or pray, the page states.