A 57-year-old minister in Portland, Oregon, was fatally shot during a home invasion by five teenagers who posed as police officers. Kevin Cooper died in hospital after shielding his 4-year-old granddaughter from the intruders. Authorities have charged the suspects with murder and related offenses.
On November 1, around 12:30 a.m., police responded to a shooting in the 9300 block of Southeast Ramona Street in Portland, Oregon. They found 57-year-old Kevin Cooper, a minister, who had been shot multiple times. Paramedics transported him to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries over a month later.
Investigators determined that five teenagers forced their way into Cooper's home after knocking and claiming to be police officers. Cooper was shot while protecting his 4-year-old granddaughter, according to statements from his brother reported by local media.
The suspects include Zyaire E. Carter, 19, and Ty'Davion C. Burton, 18, charged with first-degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon, and assault. Jayden J. Sarinana, 18, Jordan Perkins, 18, and an unnamed 17-year-old face charges of second-degree murder, assault, and burglary.
Arrests began six days after the incident, with Carter and Burton taken into custody on unrelated charges including attempted murder, assault, robbery, and unlawful use of firearms. Sarinana and the juvenile were arrested in January on robbery charges, while Perkins was apprehended earlier this month.
A Multnomah County grand jury indicted the four adult suspects. They are held in Multnomah County Jail, with the 17-year-old in a juvenile facility.
Portland Police Chief Bob Day described the incident as "a tragedy in every way," expressing hope that the arrests aid the family's healing.
Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Eric Palmer, prosecuting the case, stated, "We cannot tolerate this growing rate of violence among youth and young adults." He added that the office aims to deliver justice for Cooper's family and prevent further violence.
Cooper had served as a minister for about 20 years at what was HeavenBound Deliverance Center Church, later renamed People of Purpose Family Worship Center. The suspects are scheduled to appear in court on March 5.
