One minute, Jonathan Trent was running errands at the grocery store. The next, he was lying dead in the parking lot

In a moment of selfless courage, a man stepped in to stop a crime and paid the ultimate price.

The story of Jonathan Trent, a 47-year-old Oregonian who was killed while trying to prevent a purse-snatching, is a tragic reminder of the dangers of violence and the bravery of those who stand up to it... Continue reading here ▶

A man in Oregon, Jonathan Trent, 47, was killed while trying to stop someone from stealing a purse. Two teenagers are now in jail.

On January 13th, Trent was shopping at a Fred Meyer grocery store in Portland when he saw a purse-snatching happening outside. He tried to help, but he was shot.

Police arrived and found Trent in the parking lot. He was taken to a hospital but died.

Two boys, ages 15 and 16, have been arrested and charged with murder and robbery. Their names are not being released because they are minors.

A family friend started an online fundraiser to help Trent’s son and mother. The fundraiser describes Trent as a kind and joyful man who will be greatly missed.

Police believe Trent was leaving the store when he saw the purse-snatching and tried to intervene. He was then shot as the robbers ran away.

A police spokesperson said everyone at the police department is very sorry for Trent’s family and friends. He said Trent was just running a quick errand and should have come home.

One of the teenagers arrested was already known to the police for being involved in four other robberies earlier in January.

Another shopper and her husband found Trent after he was shot. Store employees and other people gathered around him, and someone tried to help him, but he had already died.

Trent’s mother thanked everyone who has donated to the fundraiser, saying that they miss Jon and that his son misses his dad and best friend.