In a recent development regarding a December homicide in Southeast Portland, authorities report the arrest of two male juveniles. The suspects, aged 12 and 15, have been linked to the fatal shooting of 33-year-old Santi Ram Rai at a convenience store in the Hazelwood Neighborhood on December 9, 2025. Following an investigation, Portland Police Bureau's (PPB) Homicide detectives identified and apprehended the suspects in Vancouver, Washington, with assistance from the Vancouver Police Department's Major Crimes Unit and Clark County Regional SWAT, as detailed by the City of Portland
The younger suspect is facing charges including Murder in the First Degree and Robbery in the First Degree, among others. His 15-year-old counterpart is lodged on charges that include Murder in the Second Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon, as well as additional crimes tied to activities in Vancouver. Both suspects are also facing charges related to unlawful firearm possession and stolen property, according to the PPB release. A joint statement from PPB Chief Bob Day, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, and Director of Community Safety Stephanie Howard, shared their collective statement expressing condolences and highlighting the broader impact of gun violence on communities, "The arrest of two juveniles, ages 12 and 15, in connection with this homicide is a sobering reminder of the devastating reach of gun violence and the urgent need for continued prevention and intervention - especially when young people are involved," as stated by the City of Portland.
Rai's identity was confirmed posthumously, with his family providing photographs for public release and designating a spokesperson for media contact—details of which are available through PPB's Public Information Officer. The Medical Examiner determined that Rai's death was a homicide by gunshot wound. PPB encourages anyone with more information about the incident to step forward and contact the bureau at [email protected] or to call 503-823-0479 referencing case number 25-336971.
