Harold Andrew Major, a 31-year-old man, tragically lost his life on the evening of Saturday, November 7, 2020, in Portland, Oregon. The incident occurred at the intersection of S.E. 33rd Avenue and S.E. Powell Boulevard, where Harold was sitting in his tent. He was struck by stray bullets, one piercing his neck and another hitting his upper back, resulting in fatal injuries.
Despite immediate efforts, Harold died before he could be taken to the hospital.
Harold's death was part of a disturbing trend in 2020, where he was one of eight people experiencing homelessness who were killed in homicides, and one of six such individuals who were victims of gun violence. This period saw a significant increase in gun violence in Portland, with shooting incidents reported to the Portland Police rising by 130%.
Harold was well-known in his neighborhood for his efforts to maintain cleanliness and order in the area. He would often pick up trash and keep campsites tidy. His life had been marked by instability and challenges, including a history of substance use and homelessness. Born on September 16, 1989, Harold grew up in a family that moved frequently between Sacramento, Las Vegas, and Minneapolis. He and his sister, Crystal, who were just 11 months apart, were particularly close due to the family's tumultuous circumstances. Their mother was often absent, and their father was incarcerated.
At the age of 19, Harold, along with his younger brother and two other teenagers, pleaded guilty to assaulting a young man in an abandoned house in Gresham. This led to Harold being sent to prison. Upon his release, he stayed with his sister Crystal's family for six months, working at a family business and earning a good income. However, his struggle with methamphetamine addiction soon resurfaced, and he returned to living on the streets. Despite his addiction, Harold maintained a close relationship with his sister, who continued to support him and encourage him to seek help.
The investigation into Harold's death has not yet led to the identification or arrest of any suspects. As of the latest updates, the shooter remains unknown, and the case remains unsolved. Crime Stoppers has offered a $2,500 reward for any information that could lead to an arrest and bring justice to Harold's family. His sister, Crystal, has expressed her forgiveness towards the perpetrator but hopes that they will be held accountable for their actions.
The community and Harold's family continue to seek justice and closure in this tragic case, highlighting the ongoing challenges of gun violence and the need for support and resources for individuals struggling with homelessness and addiction. Despite the passage of time, the memory of Harold Major serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and hardships faced by many in similar situations.
