PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A weekend lunch rush at a popular Tigard restaurant turned violent when one customer shot another inside the establishment, police confirmed.
Shooting at Sanchez Taqueria
The incident unfolded just after noon on Saturday at Sanchez Taqueria, located along Southwest Pacific Highway. Witnesses told authorities that an argument quickly escalated before gunfire erupted.
Officers responded immediately to multiple 911 calls reporting the shooting. Upon arrival, they found a man suffering from a serious gunshot wound. Emergency responders provided aid, and officials later said the victim is expected to survive.
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Suspect Attempts to Flee
According to Tigard Police, the suspected shooter fled the restaurant in a vehicle after the incident. Officers quickly tracked the car and conducted a stop near Southwest Gaarde Street and Pacific Highway, not far from the scene.
The suspect was taken into custody without further violence. Police have not yet released the person’s name or the specific charges they may face.
Victim in Serious Condition
Authorities said the victim was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. While his injuries were described as serious, investigators confirmed his condition is stable and that he is expected to recover.
No other injuries were reported among customers or staff at the taqueria, which remained closed for several hours as detectives gathered evidence.
Motive Remains Under Investigation
Police have not provided details about what led to the shooting or the relationship, if any, between the suspect and the victim. Detectives are interviewing witnesses and reviewing security footage from the restaurant and nearby businesses.
Officials emphasized that the shooting appears to be an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Community Reaction
Sanchez Taqueria, a longtime family-owned restaurant in Tigard, is known for drawing steady crowds, especially on weekends. News of the shooting spread quickly among locals, leaving many shocked.
“I’ve been eating here for years, and it’s always been such a welcoming place,” one resident said outside the restaurant. “It’s scary to think something like this could happen in broad daylight.”
Police Seek Witness Information
Tigard Police are urging anyone who was at Sanchez Taqueria at the time of the shooting or who may have additional information to come forward. Tips can be provided directly to the department’s non-emergency line.
Ongoing Updates
As of Saturday evening, authorities had not yet identified the suspect publicly, and formal charges had not been announced. The investigation remains active, and police say further updates will be released as new information becomes available.
For now, the community is left grappling with a violent episode in an otherwise busy dining corridor, a reminder of how quickly ordinary moments can turn into emergencies.
