Teen Arrested in Salem Shooting That Killed One and Injured Two Juveniles

The Salem Police Violent Crimes Unit has taken charge of the investigation into the shooting death of a Salem teenager on Thursday afternoon at Bush’s Pasture Park. Identified as 16-year-old Jose Vasquez-Valenzuela, the victim succumbed to injuries at the scene despite assistance from officers.

Initial findings from the investigation suggest that the incident unfolded amid the presence of two large groups of juveniles in the park when gunfire erupted. Two other teenagers, Damien Esquivel-Soto, aged 15, and an unnamed 16-year-old, sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to Salem Health for medical treatment. The latter was subsequently transferred to a Portland-area hospital for further care. Angela Hedrick, the public information officer, explained the withholding of the survivor’s name, citing difficulties in reaching the family for notification purposes.

Both surviving victims remain hospitalized, according to officials. The Upper Leffelle section of the park underwent closure for over six hours as law enforcement combed through the crime scene for evidence.

Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack emphasized the department’s commitment to resolving the case and ensuring justice for the victims and their families. “Right now, we are focused solely upon solving this crime, holding the perpetrator(s) accountable, and bringing justice to these victims and their families,” stated Chief Womack. He further underscored the need for collaborative efforts with the community to develop effective intervention and prevention strategies against such acts of violence.

In a significant development late Friday evening, March 8, Nathaniel Shauntae McCrae Jr. voluntarily turned himself in at the Salem Police Station in the presence of a parent. McCrae, aged 16, was taken into custody without incident and subsequently transported to the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center. He faces multiple charges, including murder in the second degree, attempted murder in the second degree (two counts), assault in the first degree (two counts), and unlawful use of a weapon.

Salem Police remarked that this is an ongoing and active investigation.