Family honors Gresham shooting victim on birthday, continues push for answers

GRESHAM, Ore. (KPTV) - Months after a woman was shot and later died, her family gathered to celebrate what would have been her birthday while continuing their fight for answers.

No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, and family members told FOX 12 they remain committed to finding justice for their loved one.

Dozens of balloons filled the sky to honor Lacey Clayton on what would have been her 45th birthday.

“It breaks me down in a million pieces,” said daughter Trinity Fanatia.

Fanatia was in the last months of her pregnancy when her mom was shot August 4 outside her apartment near Southeast 185^Th Avenue.

“Angry, I’m furious, there are not enough words to describe how I feel,” said Fanatia.

Clayton died six days later on August 10, and never got to meet her fourth grandchild. Now her 28-year-old daughter has stepped into a role she wishes her mom was still here for.

“Something needs to come to light because my mom left five kids behind and four grandchildren and we all need her still to this day,” said Fanatia.

Family and friends gathered at the very spot Clayton lost her life to remember her outspoken, but loving personality.

“So kind, and generous, I mean if anybody was hurt or in trouble or just needed anything you could count on her,” said long-time friend Nicole Hogquist. “And that’s just who she was, you didn’t need another friend if you were hanging out with her that’s for sure.”

FOX 12 has reported on several incidents near where Clayton was shot, including on August 26 when a person was found outside the same complex shot in the foot. There were also two incidents in June — one deadly shooting, and one assault. Fanatia said it’s time for people to start speaking up.

“What if it was your mom or your loved one that it happened to? you would want answers,” said Fanatia.

Gresham police said detectives are actively investigating the shooting. A spokesperson told FOX 12 in a statement, “As a police officer and a father of three, I was devastated when this incident occurred. I was there that morning, managing the scene. I’ve spent a significant amount of time in that apartment complex and genuinely care for the people who reside there. Just hours before the homicide took place, I was in the parking lot at Rockwood Village, talking to the victim’s children. I can’t imagine the hurt they must feel. Our detectives remain dedicated to this active investigation.”

But as the months go by, Fanatia said she wants answers.

“She’s not going to be forgotten, and I promised my mom I was going to get her justice and that’s exactly what I’m going to do and I’m not going to stop until she gets justice,” said Fanatia.

Gresham police said the investigation is ongoing and ask anyone with information to reach out to the department.