Downtown Portland, Oregon, including the Pioneer Place mall area and its Apple Store, became the epicenter of destructive riots following a protest against the police killing of George Floyd on May 25th. What began as a demonstration turned violent late into the night, resulting in widespread looting and property damage across a concentrated area.
The initial protest, sparked by outrage over the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, took a destructive turn around 11 pm. Protesters engaged in acts of vandalism, including setting fire to the Multnomah County Justice Center. Law enforcement responded with flash-bang grenades and tear gas in an attempt to disperse the increasingly unruly crowd. However, these measures were followed by an even more extensive wave of destruction and looting that continued for approximately five hours, drawing comparisons to the unrest seen during the 2016 election protests.
The geographical scope of the damage was relatively contained, affecting roughly ten square blocks of downtown Portland, specifically between the Willamette River and Interstate 405. Within this area, the intensity of the damage was significant. Rioters targeted numerous retail establishments, smashing windows to gain entry. Among the businesses impacted was the Apple Store at Pioneer Place. Reports indicate that looters entered the store and stole merchandise. Other businesses in the vicinity, such as a CVS Pharmacy, a local cigarette shop, and even the City Target also faced similar fates, with shelves raided and products stolen. Some individuals even started bonfires in the streets, adding to the chaotic scene.
Eyewitness accounts described the looters as predominantly young and white, a demographic contrasting with participants of a peaceful vigil held in North Portland the previous evening, which was largely attended by black protesters. Interestingly, some iconic local businesses, such as Powell’s City of Books, were reportedly spared from the looting and damage.
In response to the widespread unrest, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler declared a state of emergency and implemented a citywide curfew starting at 8 pm the following night. The events highlight the significant impact of the riots on downtown Portland, including the disruption and damage experienced by businesses within Pioneer Place like the Apple Store.
Looters entering Pioneer Place mall during Portland riots, impacting businesses like the Apple Store.
Firefighters responding to a fire on Washington Street in downtown Portland amidst riots near Pioneer Place.
Looters exiting a CVS Pharmacy with stolen goods in downtown Portland near Pioneer Place during riots.
A police officer standing guard outside a CVS Pharmacy in downtown Portland, following looting incidents in the Pioneer Place area.
Portland Police examining damage at a jewelry store on 3rd Avenue after riots and looting in downtown Portland, near Pioneer Place.
Man injured by police flash-bang shrapnel receiving first aid during Portland riots in downtown area, close to Pioneer Place.
A resident pleading with rioters to stop looting and vandalism in downtown Portland during unrest affecting Pioneer Place.
Ray Ameripor, a hat store owner in downtown Portland, surveying damage to his store front after riots near Pioneer Place.
