Big reward in killing of attorney in El Cerrito

EL CERRITO, Calif. (Henry Lee/KTVU) Friends of an attorney shot dead outside his El Cerrito home announced a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the killer.

James Gilliland, 62, was shot and killed in front of his home on Oct. 27, 2016. He had just returned home from a social engagement.

El Cerrito police have not made any arrests or determined a motive in the case.

Gilliland was a partner at the San Francisco law firm of Kilpatrick Townsend.

He leaves behind his wife and four children.

The family released a statement saying, "He was a big-hearted and warm person, generous with his time and skills to anyone who might benefit.  As a husband, he was a true partner in life and his love of our family was paramount. As a father, he was completely involved in our lives. 

"He coached us in sports, taught us how to drive, came to our music recitals and made us endlessly edit our essays. He supported us in our adventures and helped us with the obstacles that life brings.  But he wasn’t there just for us. He worked tirelessly for the education of underserved communities in Richmond and Oakland.  He coached Little League; he served everyone from clients to fellow volunteers with dignity and respect; he worked hard to make every institution he served a better place for all.  He was loved by many."

In a statement, friends of Gilliland said, "He was taken away from his family and from us in a senseless act of violence, and his loss leaves a gaping hole. We miss Jim’s presence in our lives on a daily basis."

They added, "Jim was a relentless advocate for his friends, his clients and most of all for his family. He would fight for any one of us in a similar situation.  Jim taught us to be relentless as well. We will never stop fighting for him until justice is served."

Anyone with information is asked to call a tip-line at 1-866-TIP4JIM, e-mail info@justice4jim.com or visit www.justice4jim.com