AUBURN, Washington- An arrest has been made in connection to a tragic drive-by shooting that took the life of an innocent bystander in 2024. Francisco J. Gallegos Barbosa, 29, has been charged with second-degree murder and unlawful possession of a firearm.
The investigation into the incident began on September 3, 2024, when officers responded to a welfare check near 41st St SE and A St SE. Upon arrival, they discovered a 35-year-old man with a fatal gunshot wound. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities gathered evidence such as shell casings, security footage, and witness statements, pointing to the fact that the shots were fired from a stolen white Toyota Highlander. It was determined that the victim was not the intended target of the drive-by shooting.
Through the use of surveillance, forensic analysis, and digital evidence, detectives were able to identify Gallegos Barbosa as the primary suspect. Communication records linked him to the crime, including discussions about the shooting and his knowledge of police presence.
On September 26, 2024, Auburn detectives and Valley SWAT units apprehended multiple individuals tied to the case, with Gallegos Barbosa being identified as the driver and shooter. He was eventually taken into custody on February 5, 2025, with the assistance of Valley SWAT.
Authorities revealed that Barbosa has a criminal record, which includes felony convictions for unlawful possession of a firearm, felony harassment, and attempting to evade law enforcement. He is currently being held at King County Jail on a $2 million bail.