Cold case: 2001 murder of Ore. boy remains unsolved

PORTLAND, Ore. -- In August of 2001, 11-year-old Joshua Michael Jeffries was fatally shot in his Portland, Ore. home. Thirteen years later, police are still searching for his killer.

Jefferies attended Lewis Elementary School, where he had just completed sixth grade, according to a Portland Police statement. He was popular with his friends, many of whom lived in the same Brentwood-Darlington neighborhood.

He had no criminal record and didn't have any apparent ties with gangs or drugs. and hadn't been threatened or involved in any kind of feuds, police said.

And yet, in the early morning hours of Aug. 10, 2001, police believe someone entered the southeast Portland home through an unlocked door and shot Jefferies once in the head, according to CBS affiliate KOIN.

A neighbor who was working on his computer heard what sounded like a gunshot, according to police. Shortly after, he heard a scream and dogs barking.

Then, he heard someone say, "Call 911."

Based on blood evidence, police say the boy was shot while lying in his bed, very likely while sleeping.

Gayle Hoefert, Jefferies' adopted aunt and caregiver who also lived in the home, told KPTV in 2011 that the boy was able to come into her room that morning.

He reportedly said, "Auntie Gayle, someone came into my room," before collapsing.

He died a short time later at the hospital.

"It's not fair, Joshua didn't deserve this," Hoefert told the station. "Joshua was a good boy."

Police have never released information on a suspect, person of interest, or motive in the crime, reports KOIN. Portland police investigator Jon Rhodes told KPTV that solving the case would hinge on someone coming forward and providing new information.

Hoefert, Jefferies' caregiver, told the station she's still waiting for justice.

"I think Josh would rest easier. I think I would rest easier," Hoefert said. "Let's get this over with. I want this person taken care of."

If you have any information on the murder of Joshua Jeffries, contact Crime Stoppers at 503-823-HELP.