PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Three people were shot, including a man who died, late Friday night in Portland and a police officer who witnessed the shooting arrested a man at the scene who is now charged with murder.
Portland police said on Sunday that 44-year-old Markell Devon Jones died from multiple gunshot injuries.
“To have somebody like Markell in your life is like the best thing that can happen,” said Tracy Koch, his adoptive mother. “He’s a wonderful person. You know, this stuff is senseless. Why? Why?”
Around 11:35 p.m. on Friday, the officer was on patrol at NE Multnomah and Wheeler whe he heard and saw a man firing a gun. Authorities said he ran toward the shooter and shouted commands at the suspect, identified as Robert J. James Jr.
James did what the officer said and was arrested. Officials said a gun was also found.
As the investigation continued, 3 people arrived at 2 different hospitals with gunshot wounds. Two men arrived in one car. One of those men, identified on Sunday as Jones, was pronounced dead at the hospital while the other is seriously wounded.
A woman arrived in a separate car. She is also said to be suffering from serious injuries. Investigators also believe she was not an intended target in this shooting.
James, 35, was booked at the Multnomah County Jail on a murder charge. Other charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Vince Cui at 503.823.0449, or Detective Meghan Burkeen at 503-823-2092
