A suspect has been arraigned on charges including domestic violence murder in the homicide of Erika Caroline Walker Evans in September of 2022.
After investigation, Homicide Unit detectives identified a suspect, Jake Phillips, 38. Phillips was in Washington County Jail since an October 2022 arrest on a felony warrant from an unrelated Washington County case. He has remained in custody there since.
In February 2023, the case was presented to a Grand Jury by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office and Phillips was indicted on charges of Murder in the Second Degree with a firearm constituting Domestic Violence, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a firearm constituting Domestic Violence. Yesterday, Thursday, September 28, 2023, prosecutors with the Multnomah County District Attorney’s office traveled to Washington County Circuit Court to arraign Phillips on the Multnomah County charges. Phillips is expected to be extradited to Multnomah County on a future date.
Erika Evans’ family has been notified of the arraignment.
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***Original Message Below***
The victim in this homicide has been identified as 26-year old Erika Caroline Walker Evans. The Medical Examiner determined the cause of death was a gunshot wound and ruled her death a homicide.
Ms. Evans' family has been notified of her death, and they have provided the attached picture for public release. The family is requesting privacy during this time.
Photo Description: Portrait of Erika Caroline Walker Evans
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*** Original Message Below***
On Friday, September 23, 2022 at 11:12 p.m., officers from the Central Precinct responded to a shooting call at Wallace Park. Officers arrived to find an adult female who was shot. The female was being treated by paramedics but died prior to being transported.
The Portland Police Homicide Unit has responded to investigate and no arrests have been made. If anyone has information about this incident, please contact Detective Brian Sims at 503-823-2079, Brian.Sims@police.portlandoregon.gov or Detective Meghan Burkeen at 503-823-2092, Meghan.Burkeen@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 22-257119.
During the investigation, Northwest 25th Avenue is closed from Northwest Raleigh Street to Northwest Pettygrove Street. The identity of the victim will be released after they are positively identified, the Medical Examiner has confirmed cause of death, and after family members have been notified.
The PIO is not responding to the scene. More information will be released when appropriate.
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