Portland Police Investigate Rocky Butte Park Homicide After Death of Salem Man Alberto Ramos-Velazquez

 In Portland, Oregon, the community is mourning the tragic loss of 20-year-old Alberto Ramos-Velazquez of Salem, who was fatally shot at Rocky Butte Park in the early hours of Saturday morning. His death has left family members, friends, and loved ones devastated as investigators continue working to determine what led to the deadly incident in a normally quiet area overlooking the city.

According to the Portland Police Bureau, officers from the East Precinct responded at approximately 3:29 a.m. to reports of a shooting at Rocky Butte Park along Northeast Rocky Butte Road. When officers arrived, they located an adult male suffering from gunshot wounds and immediately called for emergency medical assistance.

Despite rapid response and lifesaving efforts by paramedics at the scene, Alberto Ramos-Velazquez was pronounced deceased, marking a sudden and heartbreaking end to a life his family described as meaningful and deeply loved. The incident has since been classified as a homicide investigation.

Authorities initially detained a man near the scene as detectives from the Portland Police Bureau’s Homicide Unit began their early investigation. However, police later confirmed that the individual was released after questioning, and no arrests have been announced as of this point in the ongoing investigation.

The area surrounding Rocky Butte Park, including Northeast Rocky Butte Road, was closed for several hours while investigators processed evidence, documented the scene, and worked to gather details from witnesses and available information. Residents in nearby areas were briefly assisted by officers while access was restricted.

Detectives have stated that they believe additional witnesses may have been present at the park during the time of the shooting but left before speaking with law enforcement. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even small details may help move the investigation forward.

As the investigation continues, loved ones have begun honoring Alberto Ramos-Velazquez through tributes and messages shared within the community. A GoFundMe campaign has been created to help his family with funeral and memorial expenses, describing him as a cherished son, family member, and friend whose kindness and presence left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Family and friends continue to grieve a life taken far too soon, remembering him not only for the tragedy of his passing but for the relationships and memories he built during his life. As Portland police continue their work to identify those responsible, the community remains focused on supporting his loved ones and seeking answers in the wake of a deeply painful loss.