On November 15, 1996, at approximately 8:30 p.m., Willie Banks Jr, a 19-year-old black male, was driving in his car with his girlfriend in the area of NE 15th and Prescott. They decided to stop at a local grocery store. Mr. Banks went into the store to make a purchase and upon his return, discovered a subject talking to his girlfriend, who was still seated in the car.
Apparently, words were exchanged between this subject and Mr Banks. A single gunshot rang out and Mr. Banks died at that location. Mr. Banks was not armed.
Witnesses at the scene describe the suspect as a black male,5’11”, 165 lbs. This subject has not been identified. Detectives believe that the shooter is known to a number of people, but these people refuse to cooperate. Over time, attitudes about incidents like this can change. Investigators would like to encourage these witnesses or anyone with information about this homicide to step forward and share the information that they may have.
Witnesses may contact Cold Case Homicide Unit investigators directly at (503) 823-0400. To remain anonymous, witnesses may provide information through Crime Stoppers of Oregon.
Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers cash rewards for information, reported to Crime Stoppers, that leads to an arrest in any unsolved felony crime and tipsters can remain anonymous.
Information about this case or any unsolved felony crime may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,500.
Information learned from social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter or YouTube should be shared as these tips may lead to the identification of a suspect or suspects. Links can be shared anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
Submit an anonymous tip:
Visit the App Store and download P3 Tips to submit secure and anonymous tips.
Online at https://www.p3tips.com/823
Call 503-823-HELP (4357).