PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A violent confrontation at Dawson Park in Northeast Portland turned deadly on Sunday afternoon when a man was fatally stabbed, according to Portland police.
Incident at Dawson Park
The stabbing occurred around 1:15 p.m., drawing immediate attention from parkgoers and nearby residents. Witnesses told police that in addition to the stabbing, a shot was also fired during the incident, though investigators have not confirmed if the gunfire struck anyone.
Victim Taken to Hospital
Bystanders acted quickly, rushing the injured man from the park to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, located just a short distance away. Despite their efforts and medical intervention, the victim later died from his injuries, authorities confirmed.
Also Read
Police Response and Arrest
When officers arrived at the park, they secured the area as a crime scene and began interviewing witnesses. Based on multiple accounts, officers detained one individual believed to be connected to the stabbing.
Police have not released details regarding the suspect’s identity, age, or potential charges. The relationship, if any, between the victim and the suspect also remains unclear.
Identities Not Yet Released
As of Sunday evening, officials had not publicly identified the victim pending family notification. Investigators said both the suspect and the deceased man’s names would be released at a later time.
Community Shock
Dawson Park, located in the Eliot neighborhood, is a long-standing gathering spot for local families, children, and community events. News of the stabbing quickly spread among residents, many of whom expressed shock at the violence in an area usually associated with recreation and neighborhood connection.
“I bring my kids here all the time,” one neighbor said. “To hear something like this happened in broad daylight is frightening.”
Call for Information
The Portland Police Bureau is urging anyone with knowledge of the incident, including those who may have seen the altercation or recorded video in the area, to come forward. Tips can be submitted directly to detectives as the investigation continues.
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives are working to determine what led to the confrontation, whether additional suspects may have been involved, and the role of the reported gunfire. Forensic teams spent hours combing the park for evidence while officers canvassed the neighborhood for security footage.
Rising Concerns About Violence
This case adds to a string of violent incidents that have raised concerns about safety across Portland. City officials and community leaders continue to emphasize the need for conflict resolution resources and violence prevention programs, especially in public spaces.
Next Steps
The investigation remains active, and police say more information will be released in the coming days. For now, Dawson Park is left as the backdrop of a tragedy that has unsettled a community and renewed concerns about public safety in Northeast Portland.
