Ernest Berry, 65, was found with a gunshot wound in the 3200 block of Hamilton Avenue in South Dallas on December 17, 2020. Dallas Fire-Rescue pronounced him dead at the scene and police classified the incident as a homicide, opening an investigation into the circumstances of the shooting.

Investigators arrested 37-year-old Erica Polk and charged her with murder. Police reports say Polk returned to the scene after Berry was pronounced dead, a detail that figures in the case, but authorities did not disclose Polk’s connection to Berry or a motive. The investigation included evidence collection, witness interviews and forensic analysis; the prosecution presented witness and expert testimony in court as the case moved through legal proceedings.

Ernest Berry’s death had a deep impact on his family and the local community. If anyone knew Berry or has information about the events on Hamilton Avenue that night, please come forward to assist the ongoing pursuit of justice.