by Portland, OR – A heartbreaking incident unfolded at a Portland liquor store where a clerk suffered a fatal heart attack, and amidst the emergency, a man pretending to help stole $800 from the store. Authorities are actively searching for the suspect who exploited a critical moment of crisis.
Jason Hay, a beloved employee at Bins & Barrels, was overcome by a medical emergency on October 25 around 6:15 p.m. While fellow customers and good Samaritans tried to assist, one man allegedly took advantage of the situation by sneaking behind the counter and stealing cash before fleeing the scene.
A Shocking Crime of Opportunity Amid a Medical Emergency
The Portland Police Bureau described the incident as a crime of opportunity, unrelated to any larger string of criminal acts. Mike Benner, public information officer, emphasized that the suspect’s actions were opportunistic rather than part of a broader crime spree.
“This does not appear to be connected to any larger string of crimes, more of a crime of opportunity,” said Benner.
Surveillance footage revealed the suspect acting as if he was helping, even checking Jason Hay’s pulse, while in reality, he was searching for wallets and grabbing cash from the open change safe, ultimately stealing approximately $800. Michelle Maurer, the manager of Bins & Barrels, shared details with local news, calling attention to the suspect’s deceitful act amid genuine efforts by others to aid Hay.
The Legacy of Jason Hay and Community Response
- Jason Hay had worked at the store for about a year and was known for making a personal connection with every customer.
- Co-workers described him as someone who “made an effort to know every single person’s name who walked through that door.”
- Hay passed away about a week after the heart attack at the hospital, leaving behind his wife and 15-year-old son.
At a local vigil, his sister Jessica Jones highlighted the tragic betrayal involved:
“That’s the heartbreaking part is it was somebody that he knew. Somebody he trusted,” Jones said, adding the family’s hope for the community to honor Hay by paying kindness forward.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Jason Hay’s family during this difficult time as he was the sole provider, underscoring the community’s call for compassion and assistance.
What’s Next: Seeking Justice and Community Awareness
The police continue their investigation and urge anyone with information about the suspect to contact [email protected], referencing case number 25-259043.
Those wishing to learn more or follow updates on the case can visit Law&Crime for detailed coverage and expert commentary on this tragic event.
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Key facts:
- Incident date and time: October 25 at approximately 6:15 p.m.
- Location: Bins & Barrels liquor store, Portland, Oregon
- Victim: Jason Hay, 53 years old, had a fatal heart attack
- Suspect stole around $800 posing as a Good Samaritan
- Community response includes vigils and a GoFundMe for the victim’s family
As Portland mourns the loss of a valued community member, this incident serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of integrity and humanity, especially in times of crisis.
What do you think about this tragic event and the suspect’s actions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
