Lorain police seek armed suspect in fatal Pearl Avenue shooting

Lorain police are actively searching for a man they describe as armed and dangerous after a fatal shooting occurred in a local parking lot. The incident took place on Thursday afternoon and has led to the death of a resident, prompting a significant police response in the city.

At approximately 1:24 p.m. on October 29, 2026, officers responded to reports of a shooting at 2957 Pearl Avenue. Upon arriving at the scene, law enforcement discovered Dominic Berlingeri Jr., 41, suffering from a gunshot wound to his left leg. He was immediately transported to Mercy Health Lorain Hospital by Life Care Ambulance, where he later died from his injuries.

The Criminal Investigations Division of the Lorain Police Department is currently leading the investigation into the homicide. According to police, Berlingeri and Josue Rodriguez, 44, of Lorain, were involved in an altercation prior to the shooting. Rodriguez is believed to have retrieved a firearm and shot Berlingeri following a subsequent exchange between the two men.

After the shooting, Rodriguez fled the scene by running through an alley located between East 29th and East 30th Streets. Witnesses report that he was last seen driving a red 1996 Toyota Tercel two-door vehicle with the Ohio license plate LAK9790. The suspect remains at large, and police have issued a murder warrant for his arrest.

To assist in identifying the suspect, police issued a be on the lookout bulletin detailing specific physical characteristics and tattoos. Rodriguez has boxing glove tattoos on his throat and the name Rachel on his right hand. Additionally, he has cursive writing above his left eye and the name Josue on his left forearm. These markings are considered key identifiers for the public and officers on the street.

Police are urging residents and motorists to exercise caution and not to approach the suspect if they spot him. Anyone who sees Rodriguez is asked to contact law enforcement immediately rather than attempting to stop or engage with him on their own. The department is treating the case with high priority given that the suspect is believed to be armed.

The investigation continues as detectives gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the full circumstances surrounding the altercation and the shooting. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of the Lorain Police Department to resolve violent crimes in the community and ensure public safety during the search for the suspect.

This report was originally broadcast on air by News 5 Cleveland journalists and has been adapted for this digital platform with the assistance of AI. The editorial team has verified all reporting to ensure fairness and accuracy for our readers.