TGIF manager killed

A T.G.I. Friday’s night manager known for his good nature and bright smile was found murdered in the San Mateo restaurant early Monday morning during a botched robbery.

Douglas Castello, 36, of Hayward, was discovered by a day shift manager at approximately 5:15 a.m. yesterday. Police arrived moments later at the restaurant located at 3101 El Camino Real and pronounced him dead at the scene. He suffered blunt trauma and police are not confirming the type of injuries sustained, the weapon used or whether the weapon was found at the scene.

The motive of the incident was robbery, but police have not confirmed any loss, according to a statement prepared by Lt. Mike Brunicardi of the San Mateo Police Department.

"TGIF is in full cooperation with the Police Department in this investigation. We’re interviewing everyone associated with Friday’s,” Brunicardi said. "I can’t go beyond that.”

TGIF is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for this incident, according to police.

While detectives work to interview employees, those who worked with Castello are remembering him for his bright smile and pleasant outlook on life. Dan Amason was one of the last people to speak to Castello as part of Sunday night’s five-member closing crew.

Amason left the restaurant with another co-worker at approximately 2:30 Monday morning. There were also two cooks, a dishwasher and Castello on that team.

It’s not clear if detectives have already interviewed all members of that closing team.

"I just said good-bye and have a good night and I’d see him next week,” Amason said.

Amason said he is in a state of shock and still feels like he’ll see Castello when the restaurant re-opens. It’s not clear when that will be, he said.

Castello started at the restaurant as a host and moved up to manager within two years. He was a manager respected and appreciated by the staff, which has remained steady over the last year and half. Everyone got along with him, Amason said.

"He was one of the most sincere people you could ever meet,” Amason said. "He was great. You talk to him about any personal issues. He always had a smile.”

Castello was also incredibly smart, Amason said. He would always explain the history of things or at a whim have a detailed explanation for a question, Amason said.

While Amason and the staff try to come to terms with the loss of a friend and good manager, they are left grappling with the question on everyone’s mind.

What went wrong Monday morning?

"A lot of people are saying that couldn’t really see Doug caring about [protecting the money.] I seem to think it is 50/50 each way,” he said, "I’m the only one who thinks he may have tried to prevent it.”

Dana Yates can be reached by e-mail: dana@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 106.