EVERETT, Wash. (AP) - A Washington state man has pleaded not guilty in the case of a fatal shooting that authorities say was likely an act of road rage.
The Everett Herald reported Thursday that 74-year-old Simeon Berkley was charged with second-degree murder in the July 6 death of 49-year-old Steven Whitemarsh.
Berkley says he shot Whitemarsh in self-defense after Whitemarsh’s vehicle rear-ended his car in Everett.
People were interested in these podcasts
Prosecutors did not request increased bail Wednesday to hold Berkley, who was released from custody after he posted bond July 17.
A Snohomish County deputy prosecutor says the collision was likely caused by Berkley “slamming on his brakes” in front of Whitemarsh in the driving lane.
Police records say a witness described Berkley approaching Whitemarsh’s vehicle after the collision and firing two shots into his rolled-down window.
___
Information from: The Daily Herald, http://www.heraldnet.com
Please read our comment policy before commenting.