Harris to serve 3 years for 2021 Pullman shooting

George Melvin Harris III received a three-year prison sentence for the 2021 Pullman shooting that resulted in the death of his roommate, Liban Barre. A jury convicted Harris of second-degree manslaughter, and Judge Roger Sandberg imposed the minimum sentence permissible under Washington law. During the trial, witnesses reported hearing threats just before gunfire erupted, causing partygoers to flee. Harris fired 21 shots from his Glock 19, with eight bullets fatally striking Barre. The investigation, which spanned nearly four years, was slowed by a key witness's refusal to cooperate.

Harris's family argued that evidence was suppressed and important witnesses were not allowed to testify. Barre's family described the anguish of waiting for justice, stating that visiting his grave instead of seeing him alive has changed their lives forever. The judge noted Harris's sincere remorse as a factor in his sentencing decision.