On Tuesday, the Sheriff's Office took 19-year-old Javier Raul Ceniceros into custody, linking him to the violent incident that occurred on February 8, where a 22-year-old man was shot in the leg during an alleged carjacking attempt, as stated in an update provided by the Sheriff's Office.
Authorities have also identified a second suspect involved in the shooting—a 17-year-old whose name has not been disclosed due to being a minor—and plans to refer robbery and assault charges to the Clackamas County Juvenile Department. The Sheriff's Office allegedly believes that Ceniceros attempted to steal the victim's vehicle forcibly, and in the ensuing struggle, ended up shooting the victim. A third accomplice, who was present at the scene, remains at large, and detectives are looking to identify this individual swiftly.
As published on the official Clackamas County Sheriff's Office website, Ceniceros has been charged on multiple counts, including Robbery in the First Degree and Assault in the First Degree with a Firearm. He faces additional charges, including Menacing and Assault in the Fourth Degree. Moreover, Ceniceros is reportedly being held on other outstanding warrants from Multnomah County, relating to separate allegations of an attempt to elude a police officer, unlawful possession of a firearm, and recklessly endangering. Bail has been set at a quarter of a million dollars.
Back on the morning of the incident, deputies had quickly arrived on the scene after being alerted to the shooting. The 22-year-old victim was discovered wounded at the site of the gas station situated at the intersection of SE Sunnyside Road and SE 122nd Avenue. He reported that he had been targeted by the group in a car theft, which escalated when he resisted, occasions which led to him getting shot and the assailants fleeing the scene. The employees of the gas station were the first to respond by aiding the victim and calling emergency services. According to the Sheriff's Office, the victim thankfully sustained injuries that were non-life-threatening.
The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office continues to urge the public for any information regarding the case or any other criminal activities that may be associated with Javier Raul Ceniceros. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Sheriff's Office Tip Line by phone at 503-723-4949 or through their online email form. Community members are asked to reference case #24-002449 when providing tips. The investigation remains active, with law enforcement dedicated to apprehending all individuals involved in the crime.
