In the early moments of December 20, 2023, a tragedy unfolded in Portland’s Nob Hill neighborhood that cut short the life of 17-year-old Javaun R. Johnson, a male resident of Beaverton. The incident occurred just after midnight, shattering the quiet of Northwest Trinity Place off of West Burnside Street with the sound of gunfire.
Portland Police Bureau’s Central Precinct officers were dispatched to the scene at approximately 12:10 a.m. following a report of a shooting.
Upon their arrival, they discovered a young man suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite their immediate life-saving efforts, Javaun R. Johnson succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The area was quickly cordoned off by investigators, with Northwest Trinity Place and a portion of Northwest Everett Street closed to the public as homicide detectives began their work.
The Multnomah County Medical Examiner later confirmed that Johnson’s death was a homicide caused by a gunshot wound. While the police identified Johnson as the victim, they have not publicly released any information regarding a suspect or suspects in his killing. The circumstances that led to the fatal shooting remain undisclosed as the investigation continues.
Authorities have appealed to the public for assistance in solving this case. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Portland Police Bureau's detectives, Calvin Goldring or Brad Clifton, and reference case number 23-327113. At present, no arrests have been announced in connection with the death of Javaun R. Johnson.
