Early Saturday in Northeast Portland, a pre-dawn shooting at Rocky Butte Park left one man dead and another detained nearby, as homicide detectives cordoned off the popular overlook and briefly shut down surrounding roads.
Police Say Homicide Unit Investigating
According to the Portland Police Bureau, officers were dispatched at 3:29 a.m. on June 13 to reports of gunfire at Rocky Butte Park, located at 3250 NE Rocky Butte Road. Emergency medical crews responded, but the adult male victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police say officers detained one man near the area shortly after arriving. Northeast Rocky Butte Road was closed at both park entrances while homicide detectives processed the scene and gathered evidence.
What Local Outlets Reported
KOIN reporter Becca Yanez noted that investigators believe additional witnesses may have left the area before speaking with officers. The station reported that detectives are now urging anyone who saw or heard anything to get in touch, either by calling investigators directly or submitting an online tip.
History Of Incidents At Rocky Butte
Rocky Butte and the roads that wrap around it have seen repeated police responses in recent years. In February, an incident near the park ended with multiple arrests and the seizure of several firearms. Neighbors told KPTV that late-night gatherings, loud vehicles and illegal parking have become persistent problems in the area, fueling calls for more patrols and stricter enforcement of park hours.
How To Help Investigators
Anyone with information about Saturday’s shooting is asked to submit a tip online or call 503-823-0479 and reference case number 26-171254, according to the Portland Police Bureau. The bureau said its public information officer did not respond to the scene and that additional details will be released when appropriate.
