Authorities are turning to the public for help in solving the Independence Day murder of Donte Barge, who was shot during an early morning argument in 2021. The incident, which has remained unsolved despite being captured on a nearby security camera, unfolded in the area of 3400 W. Whitton in Phoenix, as reported on this week's edition of the 5-0 Info Show.
Phoenix police hope that newly surfaced video evidence will encourage witnesses to come forward and potentially to lead the arrest of the unknown male suspect. According to a statement by the Phoenix Police Department, Silent Witness is offering anonymity to those fearful of retribution, while emphasizing a reward for information that contributes to cracking the case. Witnesses can submit tips either by calling 480-WITNESS or online at the Silent Witness website, with the promise of remaining unnamed.
The 5-0 Info Show, which airs Sunday mornings on KTAR, highlighted the case in a recent episode featuring Lieutenant Vince Lewis, Sergeant Rob Scherer, and Sergeant Jen Zak. The show is part of ongoing efforts to engage the community in aiding law enforcement with unsolved crimes. The show also provided details on how tipsters can check the status of a tip or offer additional details as the investigation evolves.
Aside from the call to action, the Phoenix Police Department's news release reiterates the importance of the Silent Witness program, a valuable resource in tackling cold cases. Viewers of the program and visitors of the Silent Witness program's website can find extensive information about other unsolved crimes and how they might actively participate in bringing perpetrators to justice.
For those on social media, authorities have provided designated hashtags and handles such as @phoenixpolice and @silentwitnessaz for further public engagement and dissemination of information related to the homicide of Donte Barge and other cases in need of critical public input.
