Homicide investigation underway after Oregon man found stabbed to death outside bar

PORTLAND, Ore. (TCD) -- Police have identified a 32-year-old homicide victim whose body was found outside a bar over the weekend.

According to a news release from the Portland Police Bureau, on Sunday, July 2, shortly before 2 a.m., officers responded to the 1400 block of Southeast 12th Avenue to a report of a stabbing. At the scene, officers found Colin Smith deceased from his injuries.

The medical examiner ruled Smith's death a homicide.

Smith's ex-girlfriend told The Oregonian the victim was fatally stabbed outside The High Dive bar while defending a friend. Smith's ex reportedly said an alleged suspect inappropriately touched and tried going after one of their friends who identifies as LGBTQ+. Smith then allegedly intervened before the suspect stabbed him several times.

Smith's ex-girlfriend called Smith a "protector" and said, "He died being the person that we all knew him to be."

Police said the suspect or suspects left the area before they arrived, and no arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing.

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