*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ***

Berkeley, CA. – On Friday, October 24^th, 2003 at approximately 11:25pm, a shooting took place in a parking lot on Ashby Avenue, west of Seventh Street.  Investigators believe the shooting was sparked by road rage.  On November 18, 2003 at approximately 10:00am, the victim succumbed to his wounds and died at Highland Hospital in Oakland.

The victim has been identified as George Ronald Barillas Jr., a 43 year-old Berkeley resident.

After the shooting on October 24^th, the victim drove east on Ashby Avenue to Seventh Street, where he crashed his silver 1995 2-door Toyota Corolla into a light standard.  Responding officers located the victim in his car at the accident scene and immediately summoned Berkeley Fire Department Paramedics who transported him to Highland Hospital.

Based on witness statements, investigators believe that the suspect was driving a late model, full-size dark colored American made SUV or pick-up truck. The shooting suspect is described as a black male, 17-20 years old, possibly muscular or heavyset.  The suspect vehicle was last seen driving west on Ashby Avenue towards Interstate 80.  Police arrived quickly and conducted a thorough search of the area but were unable to locate the suspect or suspect vehicle. 

BPD Homicide Detective Lionell Dozier states, “This incident appears to be an isolated incident that may have begun on the freeway.  The victim and suspect pulled off the freeway at Ashby Avenue and some type of confrontation ensued between the two.  We’re hoping witnesses can provide us with further information, so that we can bring the suspect to justice.”