A tumultuous gunfight broke out yesterday outside an Aloha church, leaving one critically injured, another wounded, and multiple homes damaged by stray bullets. The incident also led to the arrest of two young individuals, while a search for an additional suspect is underway. The chaotic exchange of gunfire occurred around 6 a.m. in the parking lot of Eden Presbyterian Church, located near Southwest 185th Avenue and Selvarosa Court, with at least five nearby homes being struck by the crossfire.
According to KOIN, investigators are analyzing interviews and surveillance footage which suggest that 21-year-old Matteo Greene from Portland, along with an unnamed 17-year-old, also from Portland, attacked two other individuals before multiple people became involved in the shooting. During the gunfight, one victim was critically shot in the stomach, while Greene sustained a leg wound.
Washington County Sheriff Deputy David Huey indicated to KATU, "One of them was shot in the leg, and the second was shot in the stomach, which is probably the more serious of the injuries for certain. Bullets were flying in both directions," emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Remarkably, despite bullets piercing through living spaces, including living rooms, and bedrooms, no residents were injured.
Post-shooting developments saw Greene booked into Washington County Jail on charges including second-degree attempted murder and first-degree assault. The 17-year-old, whose identity has been withheld due to their minor status, was taken into custody by the Washington County Juvenile Department on similar charges. Both were also charged with unlawful use of a weapon, and in Greene's case, a probation violation, as reported by KGW.
The investigation remains active as the Washington County Sheriff’s Office continues to gather evidence and seek the public’s assistance in locating another individual connected to the shootout. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to come forward to aid law enforcement efforts in resolving this case.
