UPDATE: Two Juveniles Arrested in Connection to December Homicide

Two juveniles have been arrested in connection to a homicide in Southeast Portland.

Since the December 9, 2025, fatal shooting of Santi Ram Rai in the Hazelwood Neighborhood, detectives assigned to the Portland Police Bureau's Homicide Unit have been pursuing investigative leads. Through that work, detectives identified two suspects who were in Vancouver, Washington.

On Wednesday, January 14, 2025, with assistance from the Vancouver Police Department's Major Crimes Unit and Clark County Regional SWAT, detectives arrested a 12-year-old male and a 15-year-old male in the area of Northeast 112^th Avenue and Northeast 49^th Street. The juveniles were transported to the Robert L. Harris Juvenile Justice Center in Vancouver. The 12-year-old was lodged on the following charges: Murder in the First Degree, Robbery in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. The 15-year-old was lodged on the following charges: Murder in the Second Degree, Robbery in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. In addition, both juveniles were lodged on the following charges in connection to criminal behavior in the Vancouver area: Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (two counts), Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle.

The following is a joint statement from PPB Chief Bob Day, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, and Director of Community Safety Stephanie Howard.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and coworkers of Santi whose life was tragically taken. This loss has profoundly impacted the Southeast Portland community. The arrest of two juveniles, ages 12 and 15, in connection with this homicide is a sobering reminder of the devastating reach of gun violence and the urgent need for continued prevention and intervention - especially when young people are involved. We are grateful to the detectives, officers, and others who worked diligently on this case, as well as to our local, regional, and community partners who provided critical assistance. We also thank community members who came forward with information. We remain committed to seeking justice for the victim and continuing our collective work to combat gun violence in our city."

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this incident, who has not talked with police, is asked to contact [email protected] or call 503-823-0479 and reference case number 25-336971.

No further information will be released at this time.

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***Original Messages Below***

UPDATE: Homicide Victim Killed at Hazelwood Neighborhood Convenience Store Identified

The victim in last week's Hazelwood Neighborhood homicide is identified as Santi Ram Rai, 33, of Portland. His family has been notified of his death and provided the attached photographs for public release. Family has designated a representative to speak to local news media about Santi. Please contact the PPB PIO for contact information.

The investigation has determined that Rai was killed while working in a convenience store.

The Medical Examiner has confirmed that the victim died of homicide by gunshot wound.

This remains an active homicide investigation. If anyone has information about this incident, they are asked to please send an email to [email protected]… or call 503-823-0479. Please reference case number 25-336971.

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***Original Message Below***

Man Deceased After Shooting In Southeast Portland

On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 5:21 p.m., officers from the East Precinct responded to the 1700 block of Southeast 139^th Avenue on reports of a person shot. Officers arrived at the scene and found a man who was suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Officers immediately requested paramedics who arrived and pronounced the victim deceased.

No suspect or suspects have been detained.

Portland Police Bureau Homicide detectives have responded to the scene to investigate. If anyone has information about this incident, they are asked to please send an email to[email protected]or call 503-823-0479. Please reference case number 25-336971.

During the investigation, Southeast 139^th Avenue will be closed from Southeast Mill Street to Southeast Main Street.

The identity of the victim will be released after the Medical Examiner has confirmed the 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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