In the aftermath of a deadly shooting on the morning of Saturday, December 12 in Berrydale, First Judicial Circuit Assistant State Attorney James Parker said his office is continuing an investigation of the fatal incident in which Gary Savoy Phillips was shot and killed at 7 a.m. upon entering the home located on Joyce Phillips Lane. Santa RosaCounty deputies met with prosecutors Tuesday afternoon to decide whether charges would be filed against the shooter.
As to the question regarding the shooting being justified, Parker said "it hasn't been resolved yet."
"In a matter of this nature, as important as this is, it's important to make sure the investigation is complete," he said. "We're going to make sure we go through all cell phone records and interview witnesses. The Sheriff's Office is still working on this. You don't want to make a hasty decision without having all the facts."
Parker continued to say all witnesses are being questioned who may have pertinent information regarding the investigation and will be interviewed.
The shooter, who has yet to be identified, told investigators Phillips broke in through the front door and he was shot in self defense. Parker said in regards to the woman living in the home with the shooter, he said, “there is some relationship there but I cannot confirm at this time.”
Sheriff’s Office officials said at the time of the incident evidence found on the scene seemed to corroborate the home invasion story.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Prosecutors investigating Berrydale shooting