PORTLAND, OR – A Multnomah County jury swiftly delivered a guilty verdict for a Portland man charged with the second-degree murder of Ash Smith, a 31-year-old mother of five, who was tragically killed during a community drum circle event last spring.
Wyatt Storm Belcher, 28, will face life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after 25 years, as announced by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.
Ash Smith was killed on the evening of May 8, 2022. As participants began to leave the gathering, a single gunshot rang out, sending shockwaves through the peaceful event. Smith collapsed to the ground, having been struck by a bullet at the base of her neck. Onlookers rushed to her aid, demonstrating compassion in her final moments.
Deputy District Attorney Devin Franklin highlighted the bravery of the witnesses who stepped forward during the trial. “Despite the trauma they experienced, they showed remarkable courage by testifying,” Franklin stated, acknowledging their role in ensuring justice for Smith.
Portland police promptly apprehended Belcher following eyewitness descriptions. At the time of his arrest, he still possessed the firearm used in the shooting. Disturbingly, Belcher allegedly asked one of the witnesses if they wished to be shot after confirming Smith’s fatal injury.
Investigators determined that Smith and Belcher had no prior connection, classifying the shooting as a random act of violence. Smith, who was reportedly struggling with homelessness, had been seen shortly before her death seeking help from attendees of the event.
Following the senseless murder, Smith’s family launched a fundraising campaign to cover funeral expenses. They described her as having faced numerous challenges in life yet endowed with a kind spirit.
The case progressed slowly through the judicial system, complicated by Belcher’s mental health issues. Initially deemed unfit for trial due to major depressive disorder and schizoaffective disorder, he was subsequently evaluated as fit to participate in court proceedings.