Erie, PA – Authorities have named 27-year-old Shakeyah T. Barnes, also known as “Red,” as the primary suspect in Erie’s first homicide of 2025. Barnes is wanted on charges of homicide, attempted homicide, and aggravated assault following a fatal shooting during a New Year’s Eve party.
The incident occurred during a private, invite-only gathering in the 900 block of West 19th Street. Police documents reveal that Barnes was involved in a heated altercation described as an “east side versus west side beef” before leaving the party. Shortly after Barnes departed, shots were fired, leaving two victims in its wake.
The Erie County Coroner identified the fatality as 20-year-old Jalea Turner, a resident of Erie. Turner sustained a gunshot wound to the head and was declared brain-dead on January 1 following an autopsy. A second victim, who was shot in the leg, was treated and released from the hospital.
Witnesses at the scene identified Barnes as the shooter, but he remains at large as of Friday morning. Investigators are actively searching for him and are calling on the community for assistance. Barnes, a resident of Erie, has not been seen since the incident, and no arrests have been made.
Law enforcement officials emphasize that public cooperation is critical in resolving this case and ensuring community safety. Anyone with information regarding Barnes’s whereabouts or details about the shooting is urged to contact Detective Sergeant David Madurski or Detective Ronald Pilarski of the Major Crime Unit at 814-870-1229.
As the investigation continues, the Erie Police Department vows to provide updates and pursue justice for the victims. The tragic loss of Jalea Turner has left the community reeling, as neighbors and friends remember her as a young woman with a bright future. Meanwhile, the second victim’s recovery serves as a stark reminder of the violence that marred what should have been a joyous celebration.