Two teenagers in Oregon are facing serious charges after a tragic incident involving the shooting of a man who tried to stop a robbery at a grocery store. The heartbreaking events unfolded at a Fred Meyer grocery store in Portland’s Hazelwood neighborhood on the afternoon of January 13.
It all began around 3:50 p.m. when officers were called to the store after reports of a robbery and gunshots. When they arrived, they found 47-year-old Jonathan Trent lying on the ground outside the store with a gunshot wound. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, but sadly, he didn’t survive. The medical examiner confirmed that he died from a gunshot wound, ruling his death a homicide.
Police later explained that Jonathan had been trying to intervene during a robbery when he was shot. His brave actions, however, led to this tragic outcome.
On January 23, police announced they had arrested three teenagers in connection with the incident. Among them were a 15-year-old and a 16-year-old, both now charged with murder and robbery. The third teen, another 15-year-old who reportedly knew the other two, was arrested for a separate robbery that happened on January 1.
Authorities also believe the 16-year-old was linked to a series of four other robberies in the area during the first two weeks of January. Matt Jacobsen, a sergeant with the Portland Police Bureau’s major crimes unit, said investigators discovered that several crimes committed in the 48 hours following Jonathan’s death were all connected, which eventually led them to the suspects.
Jacobsen shared his concerns about the situation, saying it’s rare to see such violent crimes involving teens. He also highlighted the troubling access to firearms in the community. “It’s deeply concerning to see youth of this age, armed with firearms,” he said.
Currently, all three teens are being held at the Donald E. Long Juvenile Detention Center. The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office is now deciding whether the two teens charged with murder will be tried as adults.
Jonathan Trent’s family is mourning his loss and remembering him for the amazing person he was. They started a fundraising campaign to support his young son and the child’s mother during this incredibly difficult time. The campaign has already exceeded its $25,000 goal, with many in the community stepping in to help.
The family described Jonathan as a warm and kind man who brought joy to everyone around him. They shared that he was a devoted father who was always there to cheer on his son at the pool and inspire others with his positivity. His loss, they said, has left an enormous void in their hearts and in the lives of everyone who knew him.
This tragic story serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of violence and the bravery of those who step up to protect their communities. Jonathan’s memory will live on through the love and admiration of his family and friends.
