At approximately 9:37 am on May 20, 1997, Lonnie Gaston was standing outside his residence on the 5000 block of NE 26th Ave when an older model blue Ford sedan pulled up. Mr. Gaston, a 27-year-old African-American man, began to flee when the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle began firing at him. He was hit several times and died at the scene.
Lonnie Gaston was a former Los Angeles Crips gang member and was reported to be selling drugs in Portland near the time of his death. Mr. Gaston was not involved in gangs here in the Portland area.
The driver of the vehicle has been described as an African-American man, 5 feet 9 inches tall, heavyset with a mustache. Police believe that there were several witnesses at the scene and would like them to come forward with any 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).