39 Years Later, Tips Sought In Killing Of Atlantic County Man

ATLANTIC COUNTY, NJ — It's been nearly 40 years since Atlantic City local celebrity Raul Suarez was stabbed multiple times inside of his taxicab, and authorities are now renewing calls for the public's assistance in identifying who may have killed him.

Suarez was best known as "Cooks Books" at the time of his death in 1985. He earned the moniker while working as an emcee at Atlantic City's 500 Club, with the nickname following him in his work as a local radio show host, according to the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office. Suarez also worked as a taxi driver.

It was just before 2 a.m. on March 31, 1985 when a mortally wounded Suarez was found on the eastbound lanes of Route 30, near the Crest Motel in Absecon. Authorities later determined that Suarez had been stabbed multiple times.

Witnesses reported seeing Suarez at the side of his taxicab before walking into the roadway and collapsing, authorities said. One witness said they saw a struggle inside the taxi before Suarez walked into the street.

Unknown people drove off in Suarez's taxi, which was later found abandoned in the 800 block of N. Michigan Ave., Atlantic City, officials said.

Now, 39 years later, the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office wants the public's help as investigation into the slaying continues.

Anyone with information is requested to call the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office at 609-909-7800 to speak with a member of the Major Crimes Unit.

The public can also log onto the Prosecutor's Office's Website at ACPO.Tips and provide
information by filling out a form anonymously.

Crime Stoppers: People can also call Crime Stoppers at 609-652-1234 or 1-800-658-8477 (TIPS) or visit the Crime Stoppers Website at http://www.crimestoppersatlantic.com/. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards for information leading to the arrest and indictment of those who commit crimes in Atlantic County.