A tragic murder case in Portland has reached a new development, leaving many in the Somali community seeking justice and closure. But who was Shaani Mohamed, and why did his death have such a profound impact?
On a fateful night in March 2022, Shaani Mohamed, a 39-year-old Somali immigrant, father of eight, and Uber driver, was brutally gunned down while working in Northeast Portland. This senseless act of violence shocked the city’s Somali community, who knew Mohamed as a beloved member. The police have been diligently working on the case, and a recent arrest has brought the total number of suspects in custody to three.
The latest suspect, 41-year-old Shaperryia L. Lambert, was apprehended in Northeast Portland and charged with second-degree murder. Court records reveal that Lambert allegedly participated in a robbery attempt, which resulted in Mohamed’s shooting as he tried to escape. Lambert is now detained at the Multnomah County Detention Center, and Mohamed’s family has been notified of her arrest.
Lambert joins two other individuals charged in this case: Justin Ortega-Mejia, 28, and Kaesha Green, 41, who were arrested earlier this year for the same offense. Their trial is set to commence in December, and the community eagerly awaits the outcome.
The night of March 27, 2022, will forever be etched in the memories of those who knew Mohamed. He was discovered with fatal gunshot wounds inside his car near Northeast Milton Street and Northeast 82nd Avenue, despite emergency responders’ valiant efforts to save him.
The investigation suggests that Mohamed was working a late-night Uber shift when he became the victim of a robbery. The location of the incident, Northeast Milton, has been a hotspot for violence, with numerous homicides and shootings reported in recent years.
Mohamed’s journey to Portland began almost 20 years ago when he fled the conflicts in Somalia. He quickly became an integral part of the local Somali community, known for his peaceful nature, passion for soccer, and devotion to his family. Mohamed even played for Walalo, Oregon’s pioneering Somali football club.
His legacy lives on through his wife and eight children, including two teenagers who have graduated high school and a toddler who was just an infant when he passed away. The community has rallied around the family, raising over $60,000 through a GoFundMe campaign and providing ongoing support for housing and living expenses.
And here’s where the story takes a controversial turn: While the arrest of the third suspect provides some solace, it also raises questions. Is the justice system equipped to handle cases like this with sensitivity and cultural understanding? The Somali American Council of Oregon’s president, Musse Olol, expressed that while the arrest brings some relief, the family’s pain persists. He hopes for answers and accountability through the judicial process.
As the investigation continues, the community remains vigilant, seeking justice for Mohamed and his loved ones. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police, as the case number 22-82299 remains open.