The Portland Police Bureau is investigating reports that a suspicious device was thrown at protesters early Saturday morning.
At 2:28 a.m., officers responded to a 9-1-1 call at Laurelhurst Park on the report of a disturbance and "bombs" going off. Officers arrived in the area and spoke to some witnesses along the Stark Street side of the park, but the witnesses did not report hearing anything. Other officers observed people in the park who were shining lights at the police before scattering out of the area.
Several hours later, social media users posted photos (see attached) and videos of what appears to be some kind of explosive device and an explosion in the park. There has been no information shared about any reported injuries.
Additional social media posts report that there were two suspects involved in this incident. Additionally, there are posts showing a person that social media users are reporting to have been involved in this incident; however, this information has not been verified.
Arson investigators would like to hear from anyone who personally witnessed this incident, anyone with specific suspect information, or any additional video or images that might aid in the investigation. Additionally, if anyone took the remnants or unexploded material from the scene, investigators would like to recover those items for evidentiary purposes. Anyone with information should contact Detective Meredith Hopper at 503-823-3408, meredith.hopper@portlandoregon.gov .
For persons wishing to remain anonymous, tips may be submitted safely and securely to Crime Stoppers of Oregon online at http://crimestoppersoforegon.com/ or by phone at 503-823-HELP (4357).
Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers cash rewards of up to $2,500 for information, reported to Crime Stoppers, that leads to an arrest in any unsolved felony crime and tipsters can remain anonymous.