Wanted Gresham murder suspect and Portland K-9 die in SE Portland shootout

Key points

• Suspect wanted for Gresham murder was shot and died at the scene near SE 97th Ave and SE Oak St.
• Portland Police Bureau K-9 'Kylo' was shot and died after being rushed to veterinary care.
• U.S. Marshals Service Violent Offender Task Force assisted local agencies in the arrest attempt.
• Two Portland officers and two officers from other agencies are on paid administrative leave.
• Police Chief Bob Day stated the federal presence was for violent crime, not immigration enforcement.

Background

This incident follows a pattern of recent homicides in Portland, including a Buckman neighborhood shooting in August and a Northeast Portland parking lot homicide in September. The Gresham homicide investigation began Thursday morning after a welfare check revealed a deceased person.

How outlets are covering it

KATU and KPTV both report the suspect was wanted for a Gresham murder and died during a police shooting in SE Portland. KPTV provides more detail on the timeline, noting the Gresham investigation began at 7 a.m. and the suspect was spotted near SE Pine and SE 99th before the 1:45 p.m. arrest attempt. KPTV also highlights witness accounts of 20-30 gunshots and the police procession for Kylo's body. Both outlets confirm the K-9 was scheduled to retire after six years. KPTV includes Police Chief Bob Day's clarification that the U.S. Marshals' role was combating violent crime, not immigration enforcement.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the risks faced by law enforcement during high-risk arrests and the tragic loss of a K-9 unit member. It also underscores the collaborative efforts between local and federal agencies in addressing violent crime, while raising questions about officer-involved shootings and the use of force in public spaces.

What to watch

The PPB Homicide Unit and Gresham Police Department are investigating the shooting and the Gresham homicide, respectively. Police are seeking tips from the public. The names of the suspect and the Gresham victim have not been released. The officers involved are on paid leave pending investigation.