The victim of this homicide is identified as 31-year-old Ash Smith. Her family has been notified of her death, and they have provided the attached picture for public release.
Wyatt Storm Belcher was indicted by a Multnomah County Grand Jury on one count of Murder in the Second Degree with a Firearm, and one count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon (Firearm).
Photograph: Ash Smith
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Wyatt Storm Belcher will be charged with Murder in the Second Degree, as opposed to Murder in the First Degree. Multnomah County Detention Center inmate data initially indicated Belcher was charged with Murder in the First Degree. MCDC has been notified and they have updated the charges.
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The suspect in this case is identified as 25-year-old Wyatt Storm Belcher. Belcher was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on the charges of Murder in the First Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.
The investigation is ongoing.
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On Sunday, May 8, 2022, at 11:43 p.m., officers from the Central Precinct were dispatched to a report of a shooting on the Eastbank Esplanade at Southeast Salmon Street. When officers arrived they located a female who was deceased. A person has been detained as part of the investigation.
The Portland Police Homicide Unit has responded to investigate. If anyone has information about this incident, please contact Detective Brad Clifton at Brad.Clifton@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-0696 or Detective Michael Greenlee at Michael.Greenlee@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-0871.
During the investigation the Esplanade is closed at Southeast Salmon Street. The PIO is not responding to the scene. More information will be released when appropriate.
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