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Accident – Death – Obituary News :
A man was shot dead in Portland during an altercation in August 2022, leading to a series of violent events that followed. The suspect in the shooting, 23-year-old Jacob Fitzgerald, is now facing charges related to the incident.
According to court records, the victim, Otis Abner, was killed after an argument with Fitzgerald while they were traveling in a stolen vehicle. The altercation escalated when Abner threw a sandwich at Fitzgerald’s car, prompting Fitzgerald to shoot him multiple times.
Details of the Incident
The shooting took place near 1130 North Schmeer Road, where Abner sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the heart. Fitzgerald fled the scene but was later apprehended in Vancouver after a failed attempt to steal another vehicle.
In a shocking turn of events, Fitzgerald’s sister, Joanna Fitzgerald, was also implicated in the incident. The siblings were accused of destroying evidence related to the shooting, further complicating the case.
Following Abner’s death, Jacob Fitzgerald allegedly targeted a witness to the shooting, Ryan Smith. Smith informed the police that Fitzgerald was actively trying to hunt her down, fearing for her life.
In a separate incident in February, Smith was shot in the arm and face by Jacob Fitzgerald as she sought refuge in her boyfriend’s motorhome. The siblings attempted to break into the motorhome before fleeing the scene in a white Volkswagen Jetta.
Jacob Fitzgerald is facing charges of attempted murder, first-degree assault, burglary, and menacing in connection to the February shooting. His sister, Joanna, has also been indicted on similar charges and is currently held in Multnomah County jail.
Legal Proceedings
While Jacob Fitzgerald has not been charged for Abner’s death in August 2022, the recent events have brought him under the spotlight. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the full extent of his involvement in both incidents.
As the case unfolds, the community awaits justice for the victims and accountability for those responsible for the violence that has shaken Portland in recent months.
Fedor Zarkhin contributed to this story.
— Austin De Dios covers public safety and diversity, equity and inclusion. Reach him at 503-319-9744, adedios@oregonian.com or @AustinDeDios.
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