On the night of August 18, 2024, a burst of violence shattered the peace in Southeast Portland's Buckman neighborhood. At approximately 10:11 p.m., police responded to reports of a shooting at the intersection of Southeast Washington Street and Southeast 9th Avenue. Arriving at the scene, officers discovered the body of a man, later identified as 45-year-old Donny M. Calabaza, a male of Indigenous descent who grew up on the Navajo reservation.
The Medical Examiner would later confirm that he died from a gunshot wound, ruling his death a homicide.
Donny Calabaza was remembered by friends and family as a generous man who was deeply involved in Portland's Indigenous community. He was a frequent and supportive participant in cultural events such as powwows, ceremonies, and sweat lodge circles. His close friend, Stuart Crazybull, recalled how he would consistently show up to support Native organizations. His sister, Dushonia Calabaza, described him as the "backbone of our family." He leaves behind a 17-year-old son who also resided in Portland. In their time of grief, his family requested privacy but shared a photograph of him with the public in the hopes it might aid the investigation.
As of now, the investigation into Donny M. Calabaza's death is ongoing, but no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified. The Portland Police Bureau's Homicide detectives are actively investigating the case and have appealed to the public for any information that might lead to a breakthrough. His family, meanwhile, is preparing for a traditional burial at a sacred place on Mount Hood, a final journey for a man whose life was violently cut short. A GoFundMe was established to help with the funeral expenses and to honor his memory.
