Possible hate crime in California

Marcel Jones was shot and killed on August 25 by Mark Dowling at a homeless shelter in West Berkeley, California. The two were roommates at Harrison House and did not get along.

The suspect, who is white, reportedly had numerous conflicts with people related to race. One witness told police that Dowling had previously called him the N-word and threatened to shoot him.

Marcel Jones killed in Berkeley California

A GoFundMe has been started to help Marcel’s family with unforeseen expenses.

“Marcel Jones was focused, skilled, dedicated, helpful, humble, and kind. Committed to finding work that would allow him to afford stable housing and support his family, he was participating in Rising Sun’s pre-apprenticeship program and was set to graduate in one week,” the fundraiser reads.

As part of his pre-apprenticeship program, Jones, 37, was “committed to finding work that would allow him to afford stable housing and support his family,” the fundraiser reads.

Marcel was this cohort’s recipient of the Arvin Naeole Award for Strength, Endurance, Resilience, and Leadership, and was on his way to a career in the construction trades.

“Marcel’s death is keenly felt by all who knew him, particularly by his mother Louise and his three young children.”

The fundraiser has surpassed its goal of $5,000 but donations are still being accepted.

Suspect

Dowling, 62, has been charged with Jones’ murder as well as a hate crime allegation.

He remains in custody without bail at Santa Rita Jail.