View KPTV's story on this Cold Case.
On June 6, 1998, Lachelle Banks was staying the night at a friend’s apartment near the 5300 block on NE Irving Street. Minutes before midnight, multiple gunshots rang out and her friend ran to find Lachelle, a 27-year-old African American female, shot to death on her living room floor. Her friend then ran to a neighbor’s and called 911.
Ms. Banks was reported to be employed as an exotic dancer with multiple police contacts and may have been involved in drugs. Ms. Banks worked in Alaska prior to returning to Portland.
After exploring numerous leads, police believe motive for this homicide may be related to money owed by the victim or it could be a case of mistaken identity.
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).