VENTURA (CBS) — Five men were being sought on Saturday in connection with the shooting death of a 38-year-old man inside a Sherman Oaks restaurant.

The victim, identified as Raul Lopez, was fatally shot while working inside Hoagies & Wings restaurant in the 15500 block of Ventura Boulevard about 11:10 p.m. Friday.

According to a department statement, an altercation broke out between Lopez and one of the suspects. At one point, police say, Lopez picked up a chair and forced the group out of the eatery.

Once the men were outside, however, one of them removed a handgun from his clothing and opened fire, hitting Lopez in the torso, authorities said.

Lopez was rushed to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Witnesses at the scene reportedly told police that the suspects fled the scene in a dark-colored sport utility vehicle.

The gunman, a 5-foot-6-inch tall African American male, is described as having short hair and a skinny build.

Anyone with more information regarding the shooting is urged to contact authorities at (818) 374-9500.

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