Watch CBS News

Community Mourns Murdered Baltimore Chef

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Dozens gathered Friday to honor the life of a Baltimore chef who was killed earlier this week during a robbery.

Friends and family gathering took a stand Friday to showcase one thing -- the larger impact a life taken on the streets leaves on the community.

A moment of silence was broken only by a mother's overwhelming grief -- a sadness mirrored by many at Stratford University over the murder of Michael Bates, an aspiring chef who had recently graduated from the school's culinary arts program.

Police say early Wednesday morning Bates was shot and killed off Pen Lucy Road during a robbery where he fully cooperated.

"He actually had his hands up and complied with the robbers," said T. J. Smith, Baltimore City Police Department.

Police say one of the three men who approached Bates shot him in the neck and left him to die.

His closest friends opened up to WJZ, describing him as a man who lived with nothing but love in his heart.

Friday's vigil was designed to be more than just another way to grieve.

"Opposed to just another name on a blog, a name on a newspaper, we want to show that Chef Michael Bates was more to this community than people would know, and more to this community than these individuals -- these criminals, these cowards -- would know," said Darryl Campbell.

Those fueled by the outrage over a life tragically cut short took to the street, hoping those responsible would hear their plea.

The walk took them to the spot where Bates lost his life, but the message is like Bates' eternal legacy.

Police are still looking for the suspects wanted in Bates' death. They are asking anyone with information to please come forward.

Stratford University also announced they will name a scholarship in Chef Bates' honor.

Follow @CBSBaltimore on Twitter and like WJZ-TV | CBS Baltimore on Facebook

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.