Family of Beloved Brooklyn Pizzeria Owner Offers $50K Reward to Help Solve Shocking Murder Mystery

Family and friends of a famous Brooklyn pizzeria owner who was murdered Thursday by an unknown assailant announced over the weekend that they will give $50,000 to the person who is able to track down the killer.

Louis Barbati, 61, was fatally shot outside of his Brooklyn home while walking home from work. Police said Barbarati, who co-owns L & B Spumoni Gardens pizzeria and ice cream shop, was carrying a bag containing a large amount of money when he was killed.

Image source: WCBS-TV

The cash was left untouched, leading some to wonder if Barbarati's attacker had other motives.

Barbarati's family and friends gathered at Scarpace Funeral Home in Brooklyn Sunday night to grieve the loss of the beloved family man and businessmen.

Through tears, Barbarati's niece, Angela McDonald, told WCBS-TV that her uncle was a fun guy who was passionate about the family business. Outside the funeral home where the wake was held Sunday, she expressed disbelief that someone would kill a man like Barbarati.

Image source: WCBS-TV

“It’s shocking because he’s such a family man,” McDonald said.

As police continue their investigation of the mysterious murder, detectives are now saying that Barbati, who was shot several times, was likely targeted, according to WCBS.

“We’re hoping and praying leads come in,” relative Philip Gregory told the local station.

To aid authorities in their search, the family is now offering a $50,000 reward to the person who can solve the mystery.

“Someone who would do this to Lou Lou could do it to anybody in New York,” Gregory said.

L & B Spumoni Gardens announced on its Facebook page that the restaurant would be closed Tuesday as relatives lay Louis or "Lou Lou" to rest.