HYATTSVILLE, MD – Acclaimed chef Tobias Dorzon, known for his appearances on Food Network and his culinary achievements in the Washington, D.C., area, is on the mend after surviving a violent shooting incident. Last week, Dorzon and his girlfriend were ambushed and shot near his residence.

Fortunate to be recovering, Dorzon expressed his gratitude on Instagram through the accounts of his two local restaurants, Huncho House and 1123 By Chef Tobias. Acknowledging the ordeal that left the community rattled, the chef chimed in, “I’m incredibly grateful to be on the road to recovery.”

Dorzon, who made a name for himself both on the football field with the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tennessee Titans and in the culinary world through TV programs like “Chopped,” was targeted after a night out on Nov. 5. Hyattsville police detailed that Dorzon and his girlfriend were confronted by five armed assailants upon returning home.

Surveillance video, later broadcast by media outlets, captured the harrowing plea from Dorzon during the attack. Footage revealed that the incident occurred on Kirkwood Place, within the Washington suburb, around 10:15 p.m.

Visuals showed the suspects in a white SUV, their identities obscured by jackets and hoods. The group was reportedly armed with semiautomatic guns, and one carried a short rifle, according to Hyattsville Police Chief Jarod J. Towers, who condemned the violent nature of the crime.

Community leaders, including Prince George’s County Councilmember Wanika Fisher, have been vocal in their support for Dorzon and call for justice. Fisher emphasized the chef’s significance to the local community and condemned the attack as senseless violence. She extended sympathy to Dorzon and his family, wishing them a swift recovery.

Despite the ordeal, Dorzon has remained positive, reassuring followers of a promising return. Through messages on his restaurants’ Instagram accounts, he affirmed the businesses remain operational, inviting patrons to dine and support.

Earlier this year, the Restaurant Association of Maryland recognized Dorzon as the 2024 Chef of the Year, highlighting his influence in the D.C. culinary scene. His social media profiles reflect a celebrated career, with frequent mentions of celebrities and athletes enjoying his cuisine.

The hunt for those responsible for the assault continues as authorities actively search for leads while the community hopes for swift justice.