The same day a young taxi driver was released from the hospital after having his throat slashed by a fare, police released surveillance video of the man they believe is responsible.
It was around 3 a.m. Thursday when 28-year-old Lindenwold Taxi driver Shaun McDonel pulled into the parking lot of the ShopRite supermarket in Blackwood, N.J. to pick up the alleged suspect, Deptford Township police say.
Surveillance video from that parking lot shows the figure of a man walking towards and getting into McDonel's cab.
Investigators admit it's hard to see who the man is in the grainy video, but they're hoping you'll recognize his stride.
"It's a pretty distinctive walk," Deptford Township Police Det. George Johnson said. "It seems to be, what I consider, a long stride."
Det. Johnson believes someone who knows the suspect would be able to identify him by that unique walking style. The suspect was also described as a young light-skinned black male with a thin build who was wearing white sneakers and carrying a black backpack.
Authorities believe that backpack held the knife used to slash McDonel's throat as they arrived at The Club apartment complex in Deptford, N.J. The suspect then robbed the man.
McDonel's family told NBC Philadelphia Tuesday that he's happy to be home and is focusing on his recovery.
While still hospitalized, McDonel's friends said the man had recently mentioned he wanted to get out of the taxi business because of its increasing dangers.
Investigators say the suspect probably planned to rob McDonel when he called for the man.
Anyone with information is asked to call Deptford Township Police at 856.845.6440.
