Multnomah Co. Sheriff's Office

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News Release

Hiker Dies After Falling From Trail Near Horsetail Falls - 08/28/26

Read on our website: https://www.mcso.us/public-information/hiker-dies-after-falling-trail-near-horsetail-falls

 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – On Friday, August 28, 2026, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) responded to a report of a hiker who had fallen from a trail near Horsetail Falls, located at 56600 E Historic Columbia River Hwy.

 

Cascade Locks Fire notified MCSO around 1:45 p.m. that a woman had fallen approximately a half mile up the trail. The fall was reported by the victim’s friend, who called for help.

 

Emergency responders located the 70-year-old woman and determined she had died from her injuries after falling an estimated 400 feet.

 

The victim’s identity is not being released pending next-of-kin notification.

 

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office extends its appreciation to Cascade Locks Fire and the Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office for their assistance.

 

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Hiker Dies After Falling From Trail Near Horsetail Falls - 08/28/26

Read on our website: https://www.mcso.us/public-information/hiker-dies-after-falling-trail-near-horsetail-falls

 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – On Friday, August 28, 2026, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) responded to a report of a hiker who had fallen from a trail near Horsetail Falls, located at 56600 E Historic Columbia River Hwy.

 

Cascade Locks Fire notified MCSO around 1:45 p.m. that a woman had fallen approximately a half mile up the trail. The fall was reported by the victim’s friend, who called for help.

 

Emergency responders located the 70-year-old woman and determined she had died from her injuries after falling an estimated 400 feet.

 

The victim’s identity is not being released pending next-of-kin notification.

 

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office extends its appreciation to Cascade Locks Fire and the Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office for their assistance.

 

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UPDATE: MCSO Initiates In-custody Death Investigation At Inverness Jail, Identity Released - 08/25/26

Update 8/25/2026

 

With next of kin notification complete, MCSO is releasing the identity of the adult in custody who died at the Multnomah County Inverness Jail on Thursday, August 20, 2026. The deceased is 48-year-old David Rivera Godinez.

 

The death investigation is ongoing. No further information will be released at this time.

 

 

Original News Release 8/20/2026

 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is investigating the death of an adult in custody at the Multnomah County Inverness Jail (MCIJ).

 

At approximately 5:10 a.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026, deputies assigned to MCIJ responded to an incident involving a 48-year-old man who appeared to be experiencing a medical event in his cell and became unresponsive.

 

Deputies and Multnomah County Corrections Health staff attempted lifesaving interventions while awaiting additional medical support. Paramedics from Portland Fire & Rescue and American Medical Response (AMR) arrived and continued providing care. Despite these combined efforts, the man could not be revived and was pronounced deceased by AMR personnel.

 

Following established procedures, MCSO detectives responded to the scene, and the East County Major Crimes Team has begun a formal death investigation. The Sheriff’s Office follows specific policies and protocols after any in-custody death, and those steps are currently underway to ensure the investigation is thorough and comprehensive.

 

The man who died entered MCSO custody on August 16, 2026, after being booked into jail by the Portland Police Bureau.

 

The Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office is leading the death investigation. The person’s identity will be released once their family has been notified. Information about how and why the person died will be shared after the medical examiner's office completes its investigation, which will include an autopsy and toxicology analysis.

 

This death follows another incident in which a man died at the Multnomah County Detention Center on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The two cases are unrelated. The preliminary investigations on both events indicate neither death was caused by force, suicidal acts, nor were there any indications of drug use within the jails. The death investigations will remain on-going with further reviews of surveillance video, additional interviews, and other investigative tasks. When the Medical Examiner provides findings on these cases, MCSO Detectives and the Major Crimes Team will conclude their investigations.

 

No additional information can be released at this time.

 

The East County Major Crimes Team includes detectives from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Port of Portland Police Department, Gresham Police Department and Oregon State Police.

 

The information contained in this news release is based on a preliminary review of the details available to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. As the investigation progresses, information may change.

UPDATE: MCSO Initiates In-custody Death Investigation At Inverness Jail, Identity Released - 08/25/26

Update 8/25/2026

 

With next of kin notification complete, MCSO is releasing the identity of the adult in custody who died at the Multnomah County Inverness Jail on Thursday, August 20, 2026. The deceased is 48-year-old David Rivera Godinez.

 

The death investigation is ongoing. No further information will be released at this time.

 

 

Original News Release 8/20/2026

 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is investigating the death of an adult in custody at the Multnomah County Inverness Jail (MCIJ).

 

At approximately 5:10 a.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026, deputies assigned to MCIJ responded to an incident involving a 48-year-old man who appeared to be experiencing a medical event in his cell and became unresponsive.

 

Deputies and Multnomah County Corrections Health staff attempted lifesaving interventions while awaiting additional medical support. Paramedics from Portland Fire & Rescue and American Medical Response (AMR) arrived and continued providing care. Despite these combined efforts, the man could not be revived and was pronounced deceased by AMR personnel.

 

Following established procedures, MCSO detectives responded to the scene, and the East County Major Crimes Team has begun a formal death investigation. The Sheriff’s Office follows specific policies and protocols after any in-custody death, and those steps are currently underway to ensure the investigation is thorough and comprehensive.

 

The man who died entered MCSO custody on August 16, 2026, after being booked into jail by the Portland Police Bureau.

 

The Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office is leading the death investigation. The person’s identity will be released once their family has been notified. Information about how and why the person died will be shared after the medical examiner's office completes its investigation, which will include an autopsy and toxicology analysis.

 

This death follows another incident in which a man died at the Multnomah County Detention Center on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The two cases are unrelated. The preliminary investigations on both events indicate neither death was caused by force, suicidal acts, nor were there any indications of drug use within the jails. The death investigations will remain on-going with further reviews of surveillance video, additional interviews, and other investigative tasks. When the Medical Examiner provides findings on these cases, MCSO Detectives and the Major Crimes Team will conclude their investigations.

 

No additional information can be released at this time.

 

The East County Major Crimes Team includes detectives from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Port of Portland Police Department, Gresham Police Department and Oregon State Police.

 

The information contained in this news release is based on a preliminary review of the details available to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. As the investigation progresses, information may change.

UPDATE: MCSO Initiates In-Custody Death Investigation Protocol At The Multnomah County Detention Center, Identity Released - 08/21/26

Update:

 

With next of kin notification complete, MCSO is releasing the identity of the adult in custody who died at the Multnomah County Detention Center on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The deceased is 71-year-old John C. Hanberry.

 

The death investigation is ongoing. No further information will be shared at this time.

 

Original News Release 8/18/2026

 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is investigating the death of an adult in custody at the Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC).

 

At approximately 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, deputies assigned to MCDC responded to a medical incident involving a 71-year-old man who was found unresponsive in his cell.

 

 

Deputies and Multnomah County Corrections Health personnel performed lifesaving measures. Paramedics from Portland Fire & Rescue and American Medical Response (AMR) arrived and continued medical care. Unfortunately, those efforts were not successful, and the man was declared dead by AMR paramedics.

 

In accordance with standard protocol, MCSO detectives responded and the East County Major Crimes Team is conducting a death investigation. The Sheriff’s Office has policies and procedures that guide our response following an in-custody death, and those processes are underway to ensure we conduct a thorough investigation.

 

The man who died entered MCSO custody on August 14, 2026, after being booked into jail by the Portland Police Bureau. 

 

The Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office is leading the death investigation. The person’s identity will be released once their family has been notified. 

 

Information about how and why the person died will be shared after the medical examiner completes its investigation, which will include an autopsy and toxicology analysis.

 

No additional information can be released at this time.

 

The East County Major Crimes Team includes detectives from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Port of Portland Police Department, Gresham Police Department and Oregon State Police.

 

The information contained in this news release is based on a preliminary review of the details available to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. As the investigation progresses, information may change.

 

UPDATE: MCSO Initiates In-Custody Death Investigation Protocol At The Multnomah County Detention Center, Identity Released - 08/21/26

Update:

 

With next of kin notification complete, MCSO is releasing the identity of the adult in custody who died at the Multnomah County Detention Center on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The deceased is 71-year-old John C. Hanberry.

 

The death investigation is ongoing. No further information will be shared at this time.

 

Original News Release 8/18/2026

 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is investigating the death of an adult in custody at the Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC).

 

At approximately 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, deputies assigned to MCDC responded to a medical incident involving a 71-year-old man who was found unresponsive in his cell.

 

 

Deputies and Multnomah County Corrections Health personnel performed lifesaving measures. Paramedics from Portland Fire & Rescue and American Medical Response (AMR) arrived and continued medical care. Unfortunately, those efforts were not successful, and the man was declared dead by AMR paramedics.

 

In accordance with standard protocol, MCSO detectives responded and the East County Major Crimes Team is conducting a death investigation. The Sheriff’s Office has policies and procedures that guide our response following an in-custody death, and those processes are underway to ensure we conduct a thorough investigation.

 

The man who died entered MCSO custody on August 14, 2026, after being booked into jail by the Portland Police Bureau. 

 

The Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office is leading the death investigation. The person’s identity will be released once their family has been notified. 

 

Information about how and why the person died will be shared after the medical examiner completes its investigation, which will include an autopsy and toxicology analysis.

 

No additional information can be released at this time.

 

The East County Major Crimes Team includes detectives from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Port of Portland Police Department, Gresham Police Department and Oregon State Police.

 

The information contained in this news release is based on a preliminary review of the details available to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. As the investigation progresses, information may change.

 

UPDATE: The Missing 17-year-old Has Been Located Safely And Unharmed. (Photo) - 08/16/26

 

UPDATE: The missing 17-year-old has been located safely and unharmed. Thank you to everyone who assisted in getting the word out.

 

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(Original News Release)

 

Read online: https://www.mcso.us/public-information/mcso-deputies-searching-missing-endangered-17-year-old-seeking-publics-help

 

MCSO Deputies Searching for Missing Endangered 17-Year-Old, Seeking Public’s Help

 

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help locating a missing endangered 17-year-old boy with autism.

 

Zahir Varona was last seen at his home in the 1100 block of NE 239th Place in Wood Village. He is mostly non-verbal and enjoys going on walks. He does not have a phone.

 

Zahir is 5 feet 9 inches tall with a medium build. He is Hispanic, with short black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black sweater, Star Wars pajama pants and Converse sneakers.

 

If you see Zahir please call 9-1-1 immediately.

Attached Media Files: Missing Endangered Zahir, Zahir Close-up,

UPDATE: The Missing 17-year-old Has Been Located Safely And Unharmed. (Photo) - 08/16/26

 

UPDATE: The missing 17-year-old has been located safely and unharmed. Thank you to everyone who assisted in getting the word out.

 

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(Original News Release)

 

Read online: https://www.mcso.us/public-information/mcso-deputies-searching-missing-endangered-17-year-old-seeking-publics-help

 

MCSO Deputies Searching for Missing Endangered 17-Year-Old, Seeking Public’s Help

 

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help locating a missing endangered 17-year-old boy with autism.

 

Zahir Varona was last seen at his home in the 1100 block of NE 239th Place in Wood Village. He is mostly non-verbal and enjoys going on walks. He does not have a phone.

 

Zahir is 5 feet 9 inches tall with a medium build. He is Hispanic, with short black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black sweater, Star Wars pajama pants and Converse sneakers.

 

If you see Zahir please call 9-1-1 immediately.

Attached Media Files: Missing Endangered Zahir, Zahir Close-up,

Proposed Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Policy Regarding Fitness Rooms Now Open For Stakeholder Review - 08/12/26

Multnomah County, Ore. — The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) announced the launch of a 30‑day Stakeholder Review period for Proposed Policy 1115.00 outlining standards for the configuration, maintenance, accessibility, safety, and use of agency fitness spaces.

 

The review period opens Wednesday, August 12, 2026, and closes Friday, September 11, 2026.

 

The Importance of Wellness Spaces for Public Safety Professionals

 

Public safety professionals face uniquely demanding roles that require consistent physical readiness, mental resilience, and stress‑management skills. Dedicated fitness and wellness spaces play a critical role in supporting these needs.

 

These environments help members maintain the strength and endurance required for emergency response, and provide essential opportunities for stress relief, recovery, and mental health support. Clear standards for fitness room design, accessibility, and upkeep help ensure that these spaces are safe, equitable, and conducive to long‑term well‑being—ultimately strengthening the Sheriff’s Office’s capacity to serve the community effectively.

 

Proposed Policy 1115.00 defines the requirements for all MCSO fitness spaces, including:

  • Standards for equipment placement, accessibility, signage, and hazard mitigation

  • Expectations for regular cleaning, deep cleaning, and hygiene practices

  • Specifications for commercial‑grade equipment and preventive maintenance

  • Accessibility requirements consistent with ADA standards and Oregon building codes

  • Guidelines for monthly health and safety audits conducted by the Fitness Site Coordinator or trained designee

In accordance with the proposed policy, each fitness space will have a designated Fitness Site Coordinator responsible for:

  • Supporting budgeting for repairs, replacements, and new equipment

  • Coordinating cleaning and maintenance activities

  • Assisting with policy recommendations related to fitness facilities

  • Managing member liability waivers and use agreements

  • Scheduling quarterly preventive maintenance and timely equipment repair

  • Conducting and documenting monthly safety audits

To use any MCSO fitness space, members must complete a required waiver available on Sheriffnet. 

 

How to Participate in the Stakeholder Review Process 

 

Community members, partner organizations, and MCSO staff are encouraged to review the proposed policy and submit feedback during the 30‑day period. All comments become part of the public record.

 

MCSO values thoughtful input that helps ensure policies reflect shared expectations for safety, accountability, and member wellness. 

 

To read the draft policy and provide comments, please visit the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office’s policy page.

 

You can also sign up for email updates to stay informed about future policy reviews and agency announcements.

 

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Proposed Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Policy Regarding Fitness Rooms Now Open For Stakeholder Review - 08/12/26

Multnomah County, Ore. — The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) announced the launch of a 30‑day Stakeholder Review period for Proposed Policy 1115.00 outlining standards for the configuration, maintenance, accessibility, safety, and use of agency fitness spaces.

 

The review period opens Wednesday, August 12, 2026, and closes Friday, September 11, 2026.

 

The Importance of Wellness Spaces for Public Safety Professionals

 

Public safety professionals face uniquely demanding roles that require consistent physical readiness, mental resilience, and stress‑management skills. Dedicated fitness and wellness spaces play a critical role in supporting these needs.

 

These environments help members maintain the strength and endurance required for emergency response, and provide essential opportunities for stress relief, recovery, and mental health support. Clear standards for fitness room design, accessibility, and upkeep help ensure that these spaces are safe, equitable, and conducive to long‑term well‑being—ultimately strengthening the Sheriff’s Office’s capacity to serve the community effectively.

 

Proposed Policy 1115.00 defines the requirements for all MCSO fitness spaces, including:

  • Standards for equipment placement, accessibility, signage, and hazard mitigation

  • Expectations for regular cleaning, deep cleaning, and hygiene practices

  • Specifications for commercial‑grade equipment and preventive maintenance

  • Accessibility requirements consistent with ADA standards and Oregon building codes

  • Guidelines for monthly health and safety audits conducted by the Fitness Site Coordinator or trained designee

In accordance with the proposed policy, each fitness space will have a designated Fitness Site Coordinator responsible for:

  • Supporting budgeting for repairs, replacements, and new equipment

  • Coordinating cleaning and maintenance activities

  • Assisting with policy recommendations related to fitness facilities

  • Managing member liability waivers and use agreements

  • Scheduling quarterly preventive maintenance and timely equipment repair

  • Conducting and documenting monthly safety audits

To use any MCSO fitness space, members must complete a required waiver available on Sheriffnet. 

 

How to Participate in the Stakeholder Review Process 

 

Community members, partner organizations, and MCSO staff are encouraged to review the proposed policy and submit feedback during the 30‑day period. All comments become part of the public record.

 

MCSO values thoughtful input that helps ensure policies reflect shared expectations for safety, accountability, and member wellness. 

 

To read the draft policy and provide comments, please visit the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office’s policy page.

 

You can also sign up for email updates to stay informed about future policy reviews and agency announcements.

 

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Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Identifies Victim From July 30th Homicide - 08/06/26

Read this on our website: https://www.mcso.us/public-information/multnomah-county-sheriffs-office-identifies-victim-july-30th-homicide

 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the identity of the victim from the shooting that occurred at Chinook Landing Marine Park on July 30, 2026.

 

Family notifications are complete and the victim is being identified as Dontae Porter, Jr., 25, from Portland, OR.

 

The investigation is ongoing and no further information is being released at this time. 

 

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Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Identifies Victim From July 30th Homicide - 08/06/26

Read this on our website: https://www.mcso.us/public-information/multnomah-county-sheriffs-office-identifies-victim-july-30th-homicide

 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the identity of the victim from the shooting that occurred at Chinook Landing Marine Park on July 30, 2026.

 

Family notifications are complete and the victim is being identified as Dontae Porter, Jr., 25, from Portland, OR.

 

The investigation is ongoing and no further information is being released at this time. 

 

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