Kevin Cooper, 57, a pastor at a local church in Portland, died after being shot multiple times during a home invasion in the early morning of November 1, 2025. Authorities have ruled the death a homicide by gunshot.
According to the Portland Police Bureau, the incident occurred at a home in the 9300 block of Southeast Ramona Street shortly after midnight. The victim's family stated that a group of individuals banged on the door, identifying themselves as police before forcing their way inside.
As the armed intruders entered, Pastor Cooper bravely shielded his 4-year-old grandson. He was shot multiple times in front of his family, hospitalized in critical condition, and passed away on December 12 due to complications from his wounds.
A grand jury has indicted five suspects in connection with the case, including Zyaire Eugene Carter, 19, Ty’Davion Corshawn Burton, Jayden Joseph Sarinana, 18, Jordan Cornelius Perkins, 18, and an unidentified 17-year-old juvenile.
Carter and Burton face charges of first-degree murder, along with robbery, burglary, and theft. The other three suspects are charged with second-degree murder, assault, reckless endangerment, and unauthorized use of a vehicle.
Perkins was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service on February 5; the four adult suspects are currently held without bail at the Multnomah County Detention Center. The 17-year-old is being held at a juvenile facility, and all have pleaded not guilty.
Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Eric Palmer stated that prosecutors are committed to seeking accountability and emphasized that the victim should still be with his family. Portland Police Chief Bob Day called the incident a tragedy and hoped the arrests would bring the family closer to justice.
The family described Pastor Cooper as a devoted grandfather and a pastor dedicated to his community.
