Grand jury finds Portland police officer justified in killing man who had pellet air rifle

A Multnomah County grand jury ruled that Officer Andrew Young was justified in fatally shooting Nicholas G. Thorn on October 4, 2024. Officers responded to a 911 call regarding a man with a rifle making threats at an apartment building in Southeast Portland. Upon arrival, they found Thorn wielding what appeared to be a rifle and set up a perimeter while engaging a crisis negotiator. Young fired the shot that killed Thorn shortly after 1 a.

m. , with police later discovering a . 22-caliber pellet air rifle and a knife nearby. District Attorney Nathan Vasquez emphasized the tragedy of losing a life within the community and offered condolences to those affected by the incident. The DA's office plans to request the release of the grand jury transcript for transparency.

This ruling highlights the ongoing discussions about police use of force and community safety in Portland. Such incidents often raise questions about law enforcement protocols and the balance between public safety and individual rights.