OREM, Utah, March 1, 2019 (Gephardt Daily) — A shooting victim has died overnight, turning the search for suspected shooter Elbert Paule into part of a murder investigation.
“We are still looking for the suspect in the shooting, Elbert Paule,” said Orem Police officials in a tweet posted at 9:10 a.m.
The victim was identified Friday afternoon as Dominique Barnett. He reportedly died Friday morning after being shot in the abdomen Thursday night.
“The victim involved in the shooting incident has been identified as 26-year-old male Dominique Barnett,” an Orem police statement says.
“We are still actively searching for suspect Elbert Paule. A reward has been offered for any information leading to his arrest. Please contact Orem Police at 801-229-7070 if you have any information.”
Paule, 19, has been sought since about 8 p.m. Thursday, when police say they believe he shot a man known to him as a friend or acquaintance.
The shooting happened in front of the Parkway Lofts, at 1225 W. 1000 South, in Orem, which is close to Utah Valley University, but west of Interstate 15. Many of the building’s residents are UVU students, Lt. Trent Colledge said at the scene.
“Officers arrived on scene and found one adult male victim with an obvious gunshot wound,” Colledge said. “Medical treatment was initiated, and he (the victim) was transported in critical condition to the hospital. The suspect fled from the area. His location is unknown, however, the weapons used in the shooting we’ve recovered. We don’t know if he has other possible weapons.”
UVU put out a student alert, asking recipients to shelter-in-place. Colledge added that those who live in the area but are not at home may want to delay their return. Hours later, police lifted the order after thorough search of the area.
Police confirmed the suspect and victim knew each other.
“They are known to each other,” Colledge said, adding that the suspect was also a resident of the immediate area.
