CORRECTION OF VICTIM’S NAME: JURY CONVICTS WYATT STORM BELCHER OF MURDER IN THE SECOND DEGREE AND UNLAWFUL USE OF A WEAPON AFTER A DRUM CIRCLE EVENT

Portland, OR – JURY CONVICTS WYATT STORM BELCHER OF MURDER IN THE SECOND DEGREE AND UNLAWFUL USE OF A WEAPON AFTER A DRUM CIRCLE EVENT (PHOTO)

On June 5, 2025, a Multnomah County jury found 28-year-old Wyatt Storm Belcher guilty of Murder in the Second Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. The charges stemmed from the shooting death of Ash Smith, which occurred on May 8, 2022. 

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Devin Franklin prosecuted the case for the state. After the verdict, DDA Franklin said, “Ash Smith was truly an innocent victim. While she didn’t deserve Wyatt Belcher’s senseless ambush, she did deserve the compassion that the witnesses on scene showed her during her final moments. Three of those individuals had the strength to testify during this trial despite being deeply and personally affected by what they witnessed. This verdict would not have been possible without their testimony.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office expresses gratitude to the Portland Police Bureau officers and detectives, especially lead Detective Brad Clifton, for their thorough investigation of the incident.  We would also like to thank victim advocate Lyssa Simmons for her caring dedication to this case and Investigator Anthony Merrill for his exceptional work.

FACTS: The incident took place on May 8, 2022 during a drum circle event in the Esplanade parking lot. As the large group began to disperse, multiple witnesses heard a loud bang and saw Ash Smith fall to the ground. Several witnesses stayed on the scene and provided statements to the police, including descriptions of the person who shot Ms. Smith. Police quickly located Mr. Belcher nearby, matching the descriptions provided. During a search incident to arrest, officers found a .40 caliber Glock 23 holstered in his waistband.

###MCDA###