Liban A. Barre, a 23-year-old resident of Pullman, WA, tragically lost his life on September 25, 2021. The autopsy revealed that Barre died from multiple gunshot wounds, and his death was ruled a homicide by the Whitman County Coroner. The incident occurred near a large party on College Hill, an area close to Washington State University. Barre was not the only victim; Brandon Gray, a WSU football player, was also seriously injured in the shooting.
The primary suspect in the case is George Melvin Harris III, Barre's roommate. Harris was initially arrested for felony second-degree assault but was quickly released after posting bond. He claimed self-defense, stating that he was jumped and fired his concealed gun in response. Despite his initial release, the complexity of the case and the extensive investigation by the Pullman Police Department led to Harris being charged with first-degree manslaughter nearly three years later.
The legal proceedings have been ongoing, with Harris facing significant scrutiny. The Whitman County Prosecutor's Office formally filed the manslaughter charge in June 2024. Harris is scheduled to appear in court, where the details of the case will be further examined. The investigation has been thorough, involving numerous pieces of evidence and witness testimonies.
Barre's death has had a profound impact on the community, especially given his recent move to Pullman with plans to enroll at WSU. The case continues to unfold as the legal system works to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
