A tense confrontation involving a firearm and gunfire unfolded on a Saturday morning in Southeast Portland, Oregon, culminating in a suspect being wounded and taken to the hospital. The incident began with a threat at one gas station and concluded with an exchange of gunfire between the suspect and Portland Police Bureau (PPB) officers at another location.
Initial Threat and Pursuit
The events leading to the shootout commenced around 8:45 a.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025. East Precinct officers were dispatched to a gas station located in the 8400 block of Southeast Foster Road following reports that an armed individual had threatened an employee. Upon arrival, officers confirmed that a man, armed with a firearm, had indeed made threats before fleeing the scene. The suspect was described, and a description of his vehicle was circulated.
Officers Locate Suspect, Initiate Traffic Stop
Approximately 30 minutes later, around 9:15 a.m., patrol officers spotted a vehicle matching the suspect’s description parked at a different gas station, situated at the intersection of Southeast 122nd Avenue and Southeast Division Street. Recognizing the potential danger, officers initiated what is described as a “high-risk traffic stop.” This tactical approach is employed when officers believe a suspect may be armed and poses a significant threat.
Exchange of Gunfire and Suspect Apprehension
During the execution of the high-risk traffic stop, an exchange of gunfire erupted between the suspect and the responding officers. The PPB confirmed that the suspect sustained injuries from gunfire. Following the shooting, officers immediately rendered aid to the wounded individual. Paramedics were summoned, and the suspect was transported to an area hospital with injuries that were described as non-life-threatening. The suspect is currently in police custody.
Evidence Recovered and Property Damage
Investigators at the scene successfully recovered a firearm, believed to be the weapon possessed by the suspect. The exchange of gunfire was not without consequence to property. Officials reported that at least one bullet struck a Portland Police Bureau vehicle, and another bullet impacted a bystander’s car, which was reportedly stopped at a nearby traffic light. Fortunately, no officers were injured during the confrontation.
Investigation Underway
The Portland Police Bureau’s Homicide Unit has taken the lead in investigating the officer-involved shooting. As per standard protocol following such incidents, the officers directly involved in the exchange of gunfire have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Assistant Chief Chuck Lovell emphasized the seriousness with which the bureau treats all instances of gunfire on city streets, stating, “It’s very unfortunate whenever you have gunfire on our city streets, and it’s something that we take seriously.” He assured the public that these incidents are investigated thoroughly.
PPB is appealing to the public for any information regarding this incident. Those with relevant details who have not yet spoken with law enforcement are encouraged to contact the PPB at homicidetips@police.portlandoregon.gov, referencing case number 25-259271.
The case will also undergo review by the Police Review Board, a body comprising community members and bureau representatives, to ensure adherence to policies and procedures. This incident is part of ongoing news coverage concerning public safety in Portland, Oregon.
