Sumter (WLTX) - After seven months of closing because the owners were beaten by burglars, Teriyaki Wok is open again.
All the commotion inside the restaurant on Old West Liberty Street Monday probably never sounded so good. For Young and Kan Chae it's sweet significance stems from the April night that has forever changed their life.
"I told him take the money, don't hurt people. Don't hurt my wife," said Young.
As the Chae's were closing up that night, they faced two masked men with guns. Despite Young's plea one of the men hit him, and then his wife, knocking them unconscious.
"He takes all the money. He hit my wife three times in the head," said Young.
Kan spent eight days in a coma. Since the incident she's gone through two surgeries on her head, and had to experience a headache that lasted for six months.
The focus of attention for the couple has switched from her health to their finances. Since they didn't have health insurance, they're faced with a lifetime worth of debt in medical bills. Young says feelings of fear and worry hang over him day and night.
"We worry you know. Everyday we got a doctor bill, a hospital bill," said Young.
The two men who put them in this position, still roam free.
"That's why I'm mad and upset. Nearly eight months and they haven't caught them yet," said Kan.
"One day, one day someplace they'll get caught," said Young.
Despite the frustration the couple preservers, and does what they do best by working hard. "We work 11 hours everyday. Seven days a week, even Sundays part-time," said Young.
The burglars not only took $1,700 from the Chae's restaurant, but also left them with $250,000 worth of injuries.
If you have any information that could help police, please call Crimestoppers. The number is 1-888-CRIME-SC.
11/17/2009 12:10:13 PM
