5 Teens Charged with Murder of Oregon Minister Protecting Grandson

Kevin Cooper, 56, died over a month after being shot during a home invasion in November 2025.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Five teenagers have been charged with multiple felonies, including first-degree murder, in connection with the death of an Oregon minister who was shot while protecting his 4-year-old grandson during a home invasion in November 2025. Kevin Cooper, 56, died over a month later on December 12, 2025 from the gunshot wounds.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the growing problem of youth violence and home invasions in the Portland area. The death of a community leader like Cooper has deeply impacted his family, church, and the broader community, raising concerns about public safety and the need for stronger measures to prevent such senseless acts of violence.

The details

According to police, the five suspects allegedly knocked on Cooper's door, pretending to be officers, before forcing their way in and shooting him in front of his family. Detectives from the Enhanced Community Safety Team pursued leads and gathered evidence to identify the suspects, who are now facing a range of charges including first-degree murder, assault, burglary, and recklessly endangering another person.

  • On November 1, 2025, around 12:30 a.m., Kevin Cooper was shot multiple times during a home invasion in Portland.
  • Cooper died from his injuries on December 12, 2025, over a month after the shooting.

The players

Kevin Cooper

A 56-year-old minister at People of Purpose Family Worship Center who was shot and killed while protecting his 4-year-old grandson during a home invasion.

Zyaire Carter

One of the five suspects facing multiple charges including first-degree murder, assault, and burglary in connection with Cooper's death.

Ty'Davion C. Burton

One of the five suspects facing multiple charges including first-degree murder, assault, and burglary in connection with Cooper's death.

Jayden J. Sarinana

One of the five suspects facing multiple charges including second-degree murder, assault, and burglary in connection with Cooper's death.

Jordan Perkins

One of the five suspects facing multiple charges including second-degree murder, assault, and burglary in connection with Cooper's death.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The death of Kevin Cooper is a tragedy in every way. While nothing can bring him back, I sincerely hope that these arrests are a step in healing for his family.”

— Bob Day, Chief, Portland Police Bureau (Press Release)

“We cannot tolerate this growing rate of violence among youth and young adults. Kevin Cooper should still be with his grandchildren, his wife, and his church. We look forward to delivering justice for Mr. Cooper's family, holding these men accountable, and doing our part to prevent further acts of violence.”

— Eric Palmer, Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney (Press Release)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the five suspects out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for the Portland community to address the rise in youth violence and home invasions, and to find ways to better protect vulnerable residents like Cooper who were simply trying to safeguard their families. Stronger crime prevention measures and support for at-risk youth may be necessary to prevent such senseless acts of violence in the future.