Man sentenced for deadly shooting at Portland MAX stop

Felix Juarez-Perez pleaded guilty to manslaughter, assault, and unlawful use of a weapon in 2024 killing of Taysean Nash

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A Portland-area man named Felix Juarez-Perez was sentenced to 23 years in prison on Wednesday for a deadly shooting at a MAX light rail platform in 2024 that left 24-year-old Taysean Nash dead. Juarez-Perez pled guilty to charges of first-degree manslaughter, assault with a firearm, and unlawful use of a weapon.

Why it matters

The shooting at the MAX stop highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and public safety on Portland's transit system. Nash's family expressed grief over the senseless loss of life, while prosecutors noted the tragedy has left a void for his loved ones.

The details

According to authorities, the incident occurred on September 19, 2024 when police responded to reports of a shooting at a MAX Blue Line stop near East Burnside and 148th Avenue. Nash was found dead at the scene from a gunshot wound. Surveillance video identified Juarez-Perez as the shooter, and he later told police he was confronting Nash about not paying for drugs he had fronted him, leading to the deadly confrontation.

  • The shooting occurred on September 19, 2024 just before 7:30 p.m.
  • Juarez-Perez was sentenced on February 19, 2026

The players

Felix Juarez-Perez

A 43-year-old Portland-area man who pled guilty to charges related to the 2024 shooting death of Taysean Nash.

Taysean Nash

A 24-year-old man who was killed in the 2024 shooting at a Portland MAX light rail platform.

Kristen Kyle-Castelli

The Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney who prosecuted the case against Juarez-Perez.

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What they’re saying

“Taysean Nash was killed in a senseless act of violence. Mr. Nash's murder has left a void in the lives of his family and friends. His family has shown incredible resilience and has supported each other as they cope with this tragedy.”

— Kristen Kyle-Castelli, Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney (KOIN)

“He touched many lives and had friends from all walks of life. He loved and protected ALL of his siblings no matter what. And he is VERY LOVED by many.”

— Taysean Nash's mother (KOIN)

What’s next

The judge's sentence of 23 years in prison for Juarez-Perez will be carried out, though his defense attorney could potentially appeal the ruling.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the ongoing challenges Portland faces with gun violence and public safety, particularly on its transit system. It also highlights the devastating impact such senseless acts of violence can have on victims' families and communities.