Authorities announced a reward Thursday for information on the suspects responsible for the killing of a man at a Chula Vista restaurant more than 20 years ago.
Ryan Cunningham, 22, was sitting on the patio of La Bella’s Pizza Garden on Third Avenue on March 20, 2004, when he was attacked by a group of men, who beat him with a variety of weapons, according to the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office.
Ultimately, one of the suspects stabbed Cunningham and the attackers fled in two vehicles, according to the D.A.’s Office. He died later at a hospital.
The suspects were described as men in their 20s. The suspected stabber was described as approximately 6-feet tall, with a thin build and very short dark hair.
Officials say that at the time of the attack, several private parties, including a baby shower, were taking place at the restaurant so multiple employees and customers might have seen what happened.
Anyone who may have attended those parties or was at the restaurant was asked to contact authorities if they have information.
They may call the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at 888-580-8477 or send tips through the website. Crime Stoppers is offering the $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest in Cunningham’s death.
“It’s clear that there are witnesses that know who stabbed the victim to death or have other valuable information that can help police and investigators to solve this case, but maybe they are afraid to come forward or simply don’t want to be involved,” District Attorney Summer Stephan said in a statement. “The only way that we can keep all our neighborhoods safe is through partnership with the community.”
The Chula Vista Police Department continues to investigate the case, along with the D.A.’s Gangs Division, which prosecutes complex murder cases and other serious crimes linked to gang activity.
