Man charged with homeless camp murder pleads guilty to lesser charges, avoids trial

Shane McKeever pled guilty to first-degree manslaughter and no contest to attempted murder in connection with a deadly crash at a homeless camp in Portland. The incident, which took place in February 2024, resulted in the death of David Bentley after McKeever drove a stolen vehicle into the camp, allegedly targeting individuals following an argument. Witness accounts described McKeever's actions as deliberate, with one witness observing a U-turn and the vehicle speeding towards campers. Originally charged with manslaughter, his charges were upgraded to second-degree murder in July 2024. The district attorney plans to recommend a sentence of up to 210 months when McKeever is sentenced on August 19.

Court records reveal that McKeever has a history of convictions, including a domestic violence assault in 2022. This case highlights ongoing issues surrounding safety and violence in homeless encampments. The outcome may prompt discussions on legal measures and support systems for vulnerable populations.