Homicide victim's family 'searching for answers' after 'senseless' shooting

According to a statement from Hecker's family, via their attorney Chris Heywood, the shooting happened after Hecker "and his girlfriend went out to a local bar near their home."

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The victim of a homicide that happened on June 27 in Southeast Portland has been identified as 30-year-old Hunter Sutherland Lantz Hecker.

According to the Portland Police Bureau, he died after a shooting occurred on SE 82nd Avenue in the evening. Police responded to reports of gunfire around 11:44 p.m. and found the victim, later identified as Hecker, dead at the scene.

A medical examiner later confirmed he died of "homicide by gunshot."

Police said no arrests have been made and the investigation is still ongoing. According to a statement from Hecker's family, via their attorney Chris Heywood, the shooting happened after Hecker "and his girlfriend went out to a local bar near their home."

"Later that evening, Hunter was shot in front of the establishment in a senseless at of violence," the statement said. "Hunter passed away in the arms of his girlfriend on the sidewalk."

The family said they were "shocked" to learn of Hecker's death and that they are "searching for answers."

"At this time, those involved in Hunter's killing remain at large," police said. "We urge any community members with information to come forward and cooperate with law enforcement so those responsible may be brought to justice."

Below is the entire statement from Hecker's family.

"It is with profound sadness that we share this statement regarding Hunter’s untimely death. On June 27th, Hunter and his girlfriend went out to a local bar near their home. Later that evening, Hunter was shot in front of the establishment in a senseless act of violence. Hunter passed away in the arms of his girlfriend on a sidewalk in South East Portland. Hunter was born in Princeton, New Jersey, and is the youngest of two children. He was drawn to Oregon by Portland ‘s vibrant food scene and diverse recreational opportunities. In 2017, he pursued his passion for culinary arts by attending the Oregon Culinary Institute. Hunter went on to work at some of the best restaurants in Portland, including Urdaneta. Most recently, Hunter worked at Silk Road in the Pearl District, where Hunter was instrumental in creating the bar’s cocktail menu. Outside of work, Hunter was a lover of the outdoors, finding solace and joy in outdoor activities including skiing at Mount Hood and camping along the Oregon coast.

Hunter’s gentle spirit, kind heart, and love for his craft have left a lasting impact on all who knew him. His smile and zest for life will be forever missed by his family and friends, who cherish him deeply.

The Hecker family is shocked by the sudden death of Hunter and are searching for answers. At this time, those involved in Hunter’s killing remain at large. We urge any community members with information to come forward and cooperate with law enforcement so those responsible may be brought to justice.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.