PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – It has been 15 years since 11-year-old Joshua Michael Jeffries was fatally shot in his Southeast Portland home, and police are still searching for the boy’s killer.

Jeffries had just completed 6th grade at Lewis Elementary School when he was murdered.The investigation started August 10, 2001.

Police say a man was at his home working on the computer around 4:20 a.m. when he heard what sounded like a gun shot.

“Shortly after that, he heard a scream and dogs barking,” the Portland Police Bureau said in a prepared statement. “He then heard someone say ‘call 911.’”

Police arrived to find the boy dead inside his bed.

“Based upon blood evidence at the scene, it is apparent that Joshua was in his bed when he was shot and very likely sleeping. There is no apparent motive for this heinous crime,” police said.

Jeffries had numerous friends that were mostly his own age and who lived near him. Family members described the young boy as a good kid who everyone loved.

“…there was no record of drug or alcohol use and no record of gang membership or activity,” police said.

Investigators have not discovered any feuds or violent disagreements that Jeffries was engaged in with anyone and no threats had been made against him.

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Witnesses may contact Cold Case Homicide Unit investigators directly at (503) 823-0400. To remain anonymous, witnesses may provide information through Crime Stoppers of Oregon.

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Information about unsolved homicides can lead to a reward of up to $2,500 cash. All other unsolved felony crimes are eligible for cash rewards of up to $1,000.

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