A suspect has emerged in a July 21 shooting at a Five Point restaurant, and police are seeking the public’s help locating the man.

On July 21, a man approached a victim in the parking lot of the Cook Out in Five Points, showed a handgun and demanded money, police said.

The victim, who was in a vehicle, tried to drive away but the suspect fired a shot, which grazed the driver’s shoulder.

The victim was treated and released at a local hospital.

Columbia police said Tuesday their suspect is Billy Jo Downs Jr., 22, a former employee of the Cook Out. He might have connections in the Greenville/Spartanburg area.

Anyone with information about Downs’ whereabouts can leave a tip at Crime Stoppers, (888) 274-CRIME-SC (274-6372).

Kelly Davis