A London man wanted in the attack on a convenience store owner had been released from jail just two days before the Saturday evening assault took place.

CBC News has learned that 22-year-old Jessie McConnell was in jail until last Thursday.

He was let out because he had served 70 days in pre-sentence custody and was given 18 months probation.

McConnell was also prohibited from possessing weapons for 10 years.

Two days after that sentence was handed down in a Kitchener court, Rajaie Elshorafa was attacked outside of his Horton Variety store.

London police have issued a warrant for McConnell for aggravated assault.

Elshorafa remains in critical condition in a London hospital.

While the details of McConnell's latest brush with the law aren't known, we do know he was sentenced on three counts — two for possessing prohibited weapons and one for obstructing police.

Fundraiser surpasses goal

Meanwhile, a fundraiser for Elsharofa has surpassed its $5,000 goal.

Rajaie Elshorafa, 56, was attacked Oct. 21, 2017, outside his business, Horton Variety. (Supplied photo)

The GoFundMe campaign was started by employees of Shelby's Food Express, which is right across the street from Horton Variety, where Elshorafa was attacked on Saturday.

Elshorafa is the father of three young children and has run the variety store for more than 20 years. He is the store's only employee, and it is the family's only source of income.

"All funds raised will go to supporting his family during this difficult time," the fundraising page states.

Shelby's plans to increase the online fundraising goal to $10,000.

The Middle Eastern restaurant is also donating $1 from every plate sold to help the family.

Suspect's whereabouts still unknown

Police continue their hunt for McConnell.

Reports say McConnell told an ex-girlfriend he was planning to leave the province.

McConnell has had numerous previous run-ins with the law, beginning in 2015.

He has pleaded guilty to a slew of charges in the last two years, including possession of meth, uttering threats and trying to buy sex.