Man critically injured in Kelso shooting, suspect at large

Police searching for suspect who fled scene in red or maroon SUV after argument

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:20pm

An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent shell casing on the ground, the metallic texture and dramatic shadows creating a stark, gritty investigative aesthetic.A single spent shell casing left behind at the scene of a violent shooting highlights the ongoing public safety concerns in Kelso.Kelso Today

A 35-year-old Kelso man is in critical condition after being shot multiple times in a parking lot on Thursday night. Witnesses reported an argument preceded the shooting, with the suspect exiting a red or maroon SUV and opening fire before fleeing the scene.

Why it matters

Gun violence and public safety are ongoing concerns in Kelso, a city that has seen an increase in violent crime in recent years. This incident highlights the need for better conflict resolution and crime prevention measures in the community.

The details

According to police, the shooting occurred around 10 PM in a parking lot on Long Avenue. Witnesses said the suspect, who has not been identified, got out of a red or maroon SUV, possibly a Dodge Durango, and shot the 35-year-old victim multiple times after an argument. The victim was taken to a local hospital in critical condition and later airlifted to a Portland hospital.

  • The shooting occurred just after 10 PM on Thursday, April 3, 2026.

The players

Kelso Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the shooting incident.

Suspect

An unidentified individual who fled the scene in a red or maroon SUV after shooting the victim.

Victim

A 35-year-old man from Kelso who was critically injured in the shooting and transported to a hospital.

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What’s next

Kelso police are actively searching for the suspect and have asked anyone with information about the shooting or the suspect's identity to contact them.

The takeaway

This violent incident underscores the need for improved public safety measures and conflict resolution resources in Kelso to prevent further gun violence and protect the community.