U.S. Department of Justice

Federal Bureau of Investigation

April 5, 2007

STATEMENT OF PEDRO RUIZ, ACTING SPECIAL AGENT IN CHARGE, FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION, NEWARK DIVISION :

Earlier today, Special Agents were participating in a criminal investigation into a series of armed bank robberies in central New Jersey. During this operation, one Special Agent was shot and mortally wounded. Our agent succumbed to his wound shortly thereafter. We have been in direct contact with the agent's immediate and extended family. Special Agent Barry Lee Bush was 52 years of age and has served honorably for over 19 years. We do ask that the media and the public respect the family's privacy during this very difficult time.

Shooting scenes are often complex, and shooting incident investigations are painstaking. It does appear, however, at this early point in the investigation that the shot that killed Special Agent Bush may be the result of an accidental discharge from the weapon of an FBI investigative team member. If this should prove true, the tragic death of Special Agent Bush immensely compounds the grief of his family and our FBI family.

The subjects of this investigation are believed to be both prolific and extremely dangerous. Two of the three subjects involved in today's operation were apprehended at the scene. One subject fled on foot and is the subject of an intense manhunt supervised by the New Jersey State Police. We thank Colonel Rick Fuentes and his troopers for their exceptional assistance, and a host of other law enforcement agencies who are directly aiding the investigation. A fourth subject involved with this criminal group has also been taken into custody. One assault rifle and one handgun were taken from the subjects arrested at the scene. We are bringing all necessary resources to bear on this investigation.

Information concerning the subject not yet in custody follows: Francisco Herrera Genoa, DOB: 1/22/1985, Height 6'0, 200 lbs. Herrera-Genoa should be considered armed and dangerous. We ask anyone who has information to contact the FBI at 973 792 3000, the New Jersey State Police or their local police agency.

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