Suspect Sketch Released in Muffler Store Murder

Owner killed by men pretending to be customers

Investigators hope a composite sketch will help lead to an arrest in the murder of a muffler store owner earlier this month.

Michael Kozel, 57, was working inside his Independent Muffler Shop when two men entered the store and pretended to be customers before pulling out a gun. He was shot in the back during the course of the robbery. An employee was not hurt in the incident.

Police released a sketch of one of the suspects, described a black male between 18-25 years old, five-feet six-inches tall and around 140 pounds. He was last seen wearing a light blue jacket, black stocking cap and dark denim pants.

Victim's Kids Describe Dad


The second suspect is described as a black male between 18-25 years old, 6 feet all and 160 pounds.

Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 cash reward for information that leads to arrests in the case (1-800-535-STOP).

Kozel operate the shop at 5654 S. Western Avenue for more than 20 years.

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