Madeira store owner shot during robbery, suspect remains at large

MADEIRA, Ohio - The owner of a convenience store in Madeira on Kenwood Road was shot during a robbery Wednesday night, police say.

The Madeira Beverage, which is located in the 6000 block of Kenwood Road, was robbed around 9 p.m., according to officials. Police say a black male with a black scarf over his face robbed the store of an undisclosed amount of money.

As the suspect fled the store, police say the suspect fired four rounds from a small black pistol. Store owner Roop Gupta was hit once in the abdomen. Gupta, 60, is in stable condition at University Hospital.

Gupta's wife was also working at the time of the robbery and was thrown against a wine cellar. Police say she tried to stop the robber, chasing him down Kenwood Road as the suspect fled on foot. She suffered minor injuries and was checked out by paramedics at the scene.

Several agencies, including Hamilton County's Helicopter, and Sharonville's K-9 Unit, assisted in searching for the suspect.

The suspect, who is described as an African-American male with a thin build and approximately 6 feet, 3 inches tall, remains at large.

Police and neighbors told 9 News that it's unusual for a violent crime to happen in that area.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (513) 352-3040 or Madeira Police at (513) 272-4214.

The incident remains under investigation.

An account has been set up with 5/3 Bank to help with medical expenses for Gupta and his family. Contributions will be accepted under the Madeira Beverage Benefit account.

Stay with 9 News and WCPO.com for updates.

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