Portland Police Clamp Down: Arrest Made, Firearm Seized Following Reckless Street Takeover

In a significant move to curb dangerous street racing activities, Portland Police have announced an arrest and the seizure of a loaded firearm stemming from a recent, highly disruptive street takeover event. The arrest marks a crucial step in the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address these perilous gatherings that have become a growing concern for communities across the city.

The incident in question unfolded late on Sunday, February 25, 2024, in Northeast Portland.

Police units were dispatched to the vicinity of NE Columbia Boulevard and NE 33rd Avenue following reports of a large-scale street takeover in progress. Witnesses described a chaotic scene involving numerous vehicles, where drivers engaged in dangerous maneuvers such as burnouts and illegal street racing, drawing a significant crowd and creating a hazardous environment for both participants and the public.

Upon the arrival of officers, the large gathering quickly dispersed, leaving behind evidence of the illegal activity.

While no immediate arrests were made at the scene, the Portland Police Bureau’s specialized units, including the Enhanced Community Safety Team (ECST) and the Traffic Division, immediately launched a thorough follow-up investigation. This dedicated effort involved reviewing evidence, gathering intelligence, and meticulously tracing leads related to the event.

The investigative work paid off just days later.

On Friday, March 1, 2024, detectives successfully identified and located 22-year-old Ricardo Salvador as a key suspect involved in the February 25 street takeover. Salvador was subsequently taken into custody. During his arrest, officers recovered a loaded 9mm handgun, adding a serious dimension to the charges.

Ricardo Salvador has been booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on multiple charges, including Possession of a Loaded Firearm in Public and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

This arrest underscores the inherent dangers associated with street takeovers, which often involve not only reckless driving but also the presence of illegal firearms, escalating the risk to public safety.

The Portland Police Bureau continues to emphasize its commitment to holding accountable those who participate in or organize these illicit events.

They urge anyone with information about past or future street takeovers to contact non-emergency dispatch or submit tips anonymously, as community cooperation is vital in combating this dangerous trend and restoring order to city streets.