GRESHAM, Ore. — District Attorney Rules Deputy-Involved Shooting of Armed Suspect Justified; Community Mourns Tragic Loss

GRESHAM, Ore. — District Attorney Rules Deputy-Involved Shooting of Armed Suspect Justified; Community Mourns Tragic Loss

GRESHAM, Ore. — A high-tension police incident that ended in the fatal shooting of a 21-year-old suspect in Gresham has been officially ruled as justified by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, according to findings released this week.

The shooting occurred following a frantic emergency call on Northeast 162nd Avenue near Glisan Street, where a violent altercation had reportedly broken out between Ladarius Collins, the suspect, and another individual. In the moments before law enforcement arrived, multiple 911 callers pleaded for immediate police intervention as the situation escalated dangerously.

“Oh my gosh, no, don’t do it, don’t do it! Please get the cops here. He’s going to shoot this guy,” a panicked voice said in newly released 911 audio, painting a vivid picture of the chaos unfolding on scene.

Suspect Armed and Violent Prior to Police Arrival

Investigators confirmed that Ladarius Collins, 21, was armed with a loaded handgun and had already pistol-whipped another man before attempting to flee the scene. The confrontation quickly turned into a foot pursuit, with Collins fleeing across backyards and alleyways toward NE 167th Avenue and NE Everett Court, triggering concern and fear in the quiet residential neighborhood.

“I’ve been here six years, and this has never happened before,” said local resident Trudy Smith, whose home was just feet from where the chase occurred.
“It was pretty intense, pretty scary for this neighborhood,” added another neighbor, noting how close the danger came to their doorstep.

Fatal Encounter with Law Enforcement

Multnomah County Sheriff’s Deputy Adam Suboh eventually located Collins, confronting him near the end of the chase. According to body camera footage and witness accounts, Collins refused multiple commands to drop his weapon. Instead, he reportedly pointed the handgun toward the deputy, prompting Suboh to fire six rounds.

Police on the scene immediately moved in and attempted to secure Collins and render aid. Officers recovered the loaded firearm within reach of the suspect and urged him to comply and allow medics to help.

“We want to help you,” officers can be heard saying, offering medical assistance even as they maintained caution due to the weapon’s presence.

Collins was rushed to a nearby hospital, but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. An autopsy revealed he had been struck by a single bullet, which entered behind his left shoulder.

DA: Use of Deadly Force Was Lawful

Following a thorough investigation and review of all available evidence, including body-worn camera footage, 911 calls, forensic analysis, and witness statements, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office concluded that the use of deadly force by Deputy Suboh was justified under Oregon law.

District Attorney Nathan Vasquez acknowledged the painful outcome of the incident in a public statement:

“Mr. Collins’ death was tragic, and its impact on the family and community cannot be understated. I am deeply sorry for their loss.”

While the DA’s decision affirms the legality of the deputy’s actions, Vasquez also emphasized the human cost of such tragedies, noting that no loss of life occurs in isolation or without consequence to loved ones and the broader community.

Community Response and Broader Context

In the wake of the shooting, some members of the community have expressed both sorrow and frustration—not only for the loss of a young life, but also for the continued presence of gun violence in neighborhoods struggling with safety and trust in law enforcement.

Faith leaders and local activists have called for increased investment in youth mentorship, mental health intervention, and de-escalation training, with many viewing the tragedy as another example of systemic failure on multiple levels.

“We must address the conditions that create violence in our communities,” said one advocate during a vigil held near the scene. “We can’t arrest or shoot our way out of trauma.”

Looking Ahead

Deputy Suboh remains on active duty, and the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office has stated that he complied fully with department policy throughout the incident. No charges will be filed.

A formal inquest or community forum may be organized in the coming weeks to provide further transparency and space for public dialogue.

As Gresham and the larger Portland-area community continue to process the events of June 27, the shooting of Ladarius Collins stands as a somber reminder of the fragile and often dangerous intersection between crime, policing, and public safety.

If you have questions or concerns about this case, contact the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office or the Sheriff’s Office for further information.