Barry Washington Jr: White man shoots Black man who complimented his girlfriend

An Oregon man identified as Ian Cranston has been charged with murder for fatally shooting a Black man, Barry Washington, who allegedly complimented his white girlfriend outside of a local bar.

27-year-old Ian Cranston was charged with second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter, second-degree manslaughter, assault, and unlawful use of a weapon for the death of 22-year-old Barry Washington Jr. Mercury News reported.

On Sept. 19, Washington reportedly approached a white woman outside the Capitol Club and gave her a compliment.

The woman told Washington that she had a boyfriend.

Deschutes County District Attorney John Hummel said the young man “responded appropriately” to her turning down his advances.

Later that night, however, Washington became involved in a physical altercation outside of the bar with Cranston and other people he was with. “Some words were exchanged, and some punches were thrown,” Hummel said.

Cranston reportedly “pulled a gun out of his waistband and shot,” striking Washington once. 

He was transported to a local hospital where he later passed away. Cranston was arrested that night on suspicion of second-degree manslaughter but was later released after posting a $10,000 bond.