Willie Earl Barnes, 62, was found dead in his Saginaw, Michigan, home in the early hours of January 4, 2024, the victim of fatal gunshot wounds. Officers responded to a call and discovered him deceased at the scene.

Born August 18, 1961, in Leland, Mississippi, Barnes was remembered as a man of strong faith and a jack of all trades who helped with housework, remodeling, painting and lawn care. Family and friends described him as a hard worker, a great cook, a protective presence, and someone who loved singing, dancing and time with his family.

On January 7, 2024, the Saginaw Police Department announced an arrest in connection with the killing; a 35-year-old man was taken into custody. Authorities said they did not believe the shooting was random, indicating a possible prior connection between victim and suspect, and did not publicly disclose the arrested person’s identity or the specific charges.

Does anyone who knew Willie or who was in the Saginaw area that week have information that could help?