Fresno police: Gun found in fatal pursuit may be linked to two prior shootings

Fresno police Friday identified a man involved in a fatal head-on crash that happened during a pursuit Thursday afternoon as Roger Harris, 34, and say a weapon in his car may be linked to two shootings.

The collision took place about 3:34 p.m. at East Olive and North Rowell avenues.

Sgt. Jeff La Blue on Friday said it took place after officers from the department’s special response team were conducting proactive patrols near North Clark Street and East Tyler Avenue and pulled over a Ford Mustang for failing to yield for a stop sign.

La Blue said the officers saw a handgun next to the driver, identified as Harris, and Harris hit the gas when he realized they had seen the weapon.

Officers pursued, and were about a quarter-mile behind the Mustang when Harris crossed into oncoming traffic and slammed into another vehicle, killing a 48-year-old man. He was identified Friday by the Fresno County Coroner’s Office as Guy Shearer of Fresno.

La Blue said Harris had a prior history of robbery and shootings.

This story was originally published April 24, 2020 at 11:40 AM.