A sense of unease settled over the Hazelwood neighborhood of Portland, Oregon, on the late evening of Tuesday, August 13, 2024. John R. Molesworth, a 43-year-old White male, found himself in the vicinity of the 12100 block of Northeast Glisan Street. It was here, under the cloak of night, that violence shattered the calm. Reports of a person shot prompted a swift response from the East Precinct officers, who arrived at the scene at approximately 11:34 p.m. to a grim discovery.
Molesworth was found deceased, having sustained a fatal gunshot wound.
The initial investigation into the death of John R. Molesworth was immediately undertaken by the Portland Police Bureau's Homicide detectives. They descended upon the scene to piece together the events that led to the tragic outcome. As a necessary part of their investigation, authorities closed off Northeast 122nd Avenue between Northeast Glisan Street and Northeast Oregon Street. The Medical Examiner's office later confirmed the cause of death as a homicide by gunshot wound. In the days that followed, Molesworth's family was notified of the devastating loss.
Despite the ongoing efforts of law enforcement, the circumstances leading up to the shooting remain unclear. As of the latest reports, no arrests have been made in connection with the homicide, and authorities have not publicly identified any suspects. The investigation is active and ongoing. Detectives are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist in their inquiry. They have provided contact information for the public to share any potential leads, referencing case number 24-204066. The community is left to mourn the loss of a life cut short, while the search for answers and justice for John R. Molesworth continues.
