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Highlands Today

AP Convenience Store Owner Shot

COPS: WAS CLOSING STORE

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By Joe  Seelig | Highlands Today

Published: June 27, 2008

AVON PARK – The owner of the Central Food Market, at 1302 S. Memorial Drive, was in guarded condition Friday after he was shot Thursday night as he was leaving his business.

Becker Nafel, 42, was transported by Highlands County Emergency Medical Services to Florida Hospital Heartland, and was later airlifted to an area trauma center, said Avon Park Police Sgt. Jason Lister on Friday.

According to an Avon Park police department news release, the shooting happened at about 10:35 p.m. Thursday. Nafel was shot in the upper torso. It was Nafel who called in the shooting complaint, Lister said.

Lister declined to say how many shots were fired, or if the shot or shots came from someone on foot or in a passing motor vehicle.

Nafel told police he did not argue with anyone, Lister said.
Lister was asked if Nafel was robbed.
"We don't know the motive at this time," Lister said.

Lister said to his knowledge Nafel was alone at the time of the shooting.
"That's a well established business in the community and a lot of people know him," Lister said.
The family-owned business has been operating there for about 15 years, Lister said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lister at 863-453-6622 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477). Callers can remain anonymous and a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a suspect may be offered.

Joe Seelig can be reached at jseelig@highlandstoday.com

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