The suspect in a recent homicide in a Farmington Hills park is facing a second-degree murder charge in connection with the slaying.
Gabriel Bercea, 23, of Farmington Hills was arraigned in 47th District Court via Zoom on Thursday morning for the death of Richard Alan Harris, 64. Harris’ body was found May 3 in Woodland Hills, a 74-acre nature park on Farmington Road, just south of I-696.
Assistant Prosecutor Meaghan Williams said Harris died in a “particularly vicious attack…bludgeoned and strangled midday in a public place.” Harris and Bercea didn’t know each other, she said.
Bercea’s DNA was found under Harris’ fingernails and on Harris’ hands, Williams added.
Police said Bercea was arrested on June 8 at his place of employment. Officials said he worked as a machinist in Wixom and has no prior criminal history.
Assistant Prosecutor Meaghan Williams at Bercea’s arraignment via Zoom (screenshot by Aileen Wingblad/MediaNews Group)
At his arraignment, Bercea spoke only to identify himself by name. Bond was denied.
“I want to thank our community for placing their trust in us throughout this investigation and for the overwhelming support and cooperation shown to our investigators,” said Farmington Hills Police Chief John Piggott. “This case may not have been solved without the community’s assistance. Farmington Hills remains a safe community because our residents are active partners in our community policing philosophy. I also want to recognize our investigators, who worked tirelessly, following every lead and every tip to bring this case to an arrest and prosecution.”
Bercea’s next court appearance is scheduled for June 24 for a probable cause conference.
.