By Rachel Sawicki

Two men were killed Saturday night after being shot inside a Georgetown restaurant.

Delaware State Police said they are seeking two suspects who fled El Nopalito Restaurant, at 22095 DuPont Boulevard, after the shooting. The restaurant is located inside of El Mercadito grocery store.

Police said a group of Hispanic males had been asked to leave the restaurant earlier in the evening after becoming disorderly and arguing with other patrons. Then two of the males from that group returned to the business wearing masks.

One of the suspects, police said, approached a 31-year-old male victim and removed a necklace from his neck. The victim lunged at the suspect who stole the necklace, causing the second suspect to remove a handgun from his waistband and shoot the victim. As the suspects fled the restaurant, the second suspect fired a second round into the dining area, striking a 28-year-old male victim.

Officers from the Georgetown Police Department and Delaware State Police responded to the El Nopalito at approximately 7:28 p.m. The 28-year-old male sustained a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The 31-year-old victim was transported to an area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries from the gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased. Identification of both victims is pending notification to the next of kin.

Georgetown Mayor Bill West said the shooting is “just a bad thing that happened in Georgetown.”

“It’s a shame that two innocent bystanders lost their life,” he said. “But we need to tell people in the community that things are safe. As the mayor I want to ensure people know this is just one occurrence and the people of Georgetown are safe.”

Senior Cpl. Jason Hatchell, Public Information Officer for Delaware State Police, said they do not have any leads as of Sunday evening, but are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward. He added this is an isolated incident and there is no threat to the public.

“This appeared to be from a disagreement that occurred within the restaurant at the moment with the patrons and the suspects,” he said. “There’s really no threat to society.”

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Delaware State Police Homicide Unit Detective Grassi by calling 302-365-8441. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet .

Those who have witnessed a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death, can seek help from the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center. The 24-hour toll free hotline is 1-800 VICTIM-1. (1-800-842-8461). You may also email DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.