On April 5, 2023, Marcel Bryant, a 30-year-old man, and Deja Willingham, a 27-year-old woman, were fatally shot in the Woodlawn Neighborhood of Northeast Portland, Oregon. The incident occurred near the intersection of Northeast 22nd Avenue and Northeast Lombard Street, with police receiving reports of gunfire around 9:15 p.m..
Upon arrival, police found Deja Willingham deceased at the scene. Several hours later, they discovered Marcel Bryant's body nearby.
The medical examiner confirmed that both victims died from gunshot wounds.
Marcel Bryant is remembered by his family and community as a kind and caring individual. His sister, Alexis Mottlaverria, described him as a father figure who raised her after their mother's death. She highlighted his significant role in the community and the profound impact of his loss on his family, particularly his son who will no longer hear his father's voice.
As of the latest reports, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, and the suspect or suspects involved have fled the scene. The Portland Police Bureau is seeking information from the public to aid in the investigation. Anyone with helpful information is encouraged to contact Detective Travis Law or Detective Ryan Foote, referencing case number 23-88186.
The families of the victims have been notified, and Marcel Bryant's family has made a representative available to speak to the press. However, Deja Willingham's family has requested no media contact. The community has shown support for Marcel Bryant through tributes, including lighting candles in his memory at the National Gun Violence Memorial.
