Two men freed of gun charges in 2023 Portland shooting

Two men charged in connection with a 2023 shooting in Buff Bay, Portland were acquitted in the Gun Court after a judge ruled that the evidence did not meet the required standard for conviction.

Justice Grace Henry McKenzie on Friday found Tyrese Williams, 24, and Diashaun Parker, 25, not guilty of using a firearm to commit a felony and wounding with intent.

Williams, a fisherman, and Parker, who is unemployed, are both from Orrette Lane in Buff Bay, Portland.

The charges stem from a July 8, 2023 incident in which a taxi operator was shot in the face during an early-morning altercation.

Evidence presented in court indicated that the complainant had left a party at Buff Bay High School and later went to a plaza, where he intervened in a dispute involving an acquaintance.

It was alleged that Williams, Parker, and a third man approached shortly after. During the altercation, the third man, who remains at large, reportedly pulled a weapon and shot the complainant.

Both Williams and Parker were later arrested, identified in parades, and charged.

However, the court ultimately ruled the evidence insufficient, and both men were acquitted and released.

Attorneys John Jacobs and Michael Deans represented the freed men.

- Tanesha Mundle

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