UPDATE: PPB Seeks Public’s Help Identifying Homicide Suspect, Victim Identified

The individual found deceased at a Plaid Pantry in the Cully Neighborhood on Friday, March 27, has been identified as Ernesto Castellanos, 57, of Portland. Castellanos' family has been notified of his death. They are requesting privacy at this time.

The Medical Examiner determined Castellanos died of homicide by gunshot wound.

Plaid Pantry, Castellanos' employer, is offering a reward of $5,000 for information that leads to the identification and arrest of the suspect.

The Portland Police Bureau is releasing video and photos of the suspect. He is described as a Caucasian male, in his 20s to 30s, approximately 5'10 and 170 lbs. He was last seen wearing a black knit beanie, black sweatshirt with a print on the front, blue jeans, black shoes and armed with a handgun.

The suspect could still be armed and therefore he should be considered dangerous and should not be approached.

Anyone who has information regarding the identity of this suspect or knows where he is currently located is urged to call 911 immediately. If you have non-critical information, contact [email protected] or call (503) 823-0479 and reference case number 26-91195.

###PPB###

***Original Message Below***

Homicide Investigation Underway in the Cully Neighborhood

On Friday, March 27, 2026, at 11:48 p.m., Portland Police officers responded to a report of an unconscious person at the Plaid Pantry in the Cully Neighborhood, located at 6060 Northeast Columbia Boulevard.

Officers located an adult male who was deceased at the scene with what appeared to be a gunshot wound.

Due to the circumstances, detectives with the Portland Police Homicide Unit responded to investigate.

More information will be released when appropriate.

If anyone has information about this incident and has not spoken to police, please contact [email protected]… and reference case number PP26-88468.

###PPB###