New photos released of man accused of stabbing 5 people at hookah bar

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg police are searching for the man they believe is responsible for stabbing five people inside a hookah bar in University City earlier this year.

The stabbing happened in March, the suspect is still on the run, and investigators are pleading for the public’s help.

[RELATED: Business owners take action after 5 stabbed at hookah bar]

The violent crime was a source of outrage for business owners and neighbors in University City.

On Wednesday, police released new photos from surveillance cameras at the Red at 28th hookah lounge.

Around 2 a.m. on March 19, police were told that some people started arguing at the lounge, which then turned into a fight. The man pulled a knife and started stabbing people, injuring five.

"There was a large disturbance, blood on the floor, chairs turned over and other victims started showing up a area hospitals," CMPD detective Kirk Schultz said.

[READ MORE: Owner of hookah bar where 5 were stabbed hosts 'Stop the Violence' town hall]

But officers still don’t know who the man is.

"We're asking for the public's help," said Schultz.

Police said two of the victims who were stabbed could have died but have recovered.

The owner of Red at 28th told Channel 9 that he now has a security guard five days a week and is working to hire an off duty CMPD officer during large events.

Police are offering a $1000 reward for information leading to his arrest.

"I would love to put this guy where he belongs, which is behind bars in jail," Schultz said.

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