George Melvin Harris IIIs trial results in guilty verdict for second-degree manslaughter for death of Liban Barre

George Melvin Harris III faced conviction for second-degree manslaughter after fatally shooting his roommate, Liban Barre, during a party in Pullman in September 2021. The jury delivered the verdict following nine hours of deliberation at the Whitman County Superior Court. Harris, who claimed self-defense, stated he was attacked by a group of men, one wielding a toy gun mistaken for a real weapon. However, prosecutors argued that Harris recklessly discharged his firearm 21 times at fleeing individuals, with evidence showing multiple bullet casings at the scene. Emotional reactions followed the verdict, as Harris offered condolences to Barre's family.

The case highlighted concerns about jury influence from public displays of support for Harris, prompting Judge Sandberg to question jurors individually. A neuropsychologist testified that Harris had suffered a traumatic brain injury, which the defense suggested could affect his judgment. Ultimately, Judge Sandberg denied Harris's motion for a mistrial, citing procedural adherence.