Man gets life sentence for murder at Eastbank Esplanade drum circle in 2022

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – A man was sentenced to life in prison with a possibility for parole after 25 years for a shooting death that occurred during a drum circle event three years ago.

Wyatt Storm Belcher, 28, was convicted of second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon on Thursday.

His sentencing took place Monday afternoon.

On May 8, 2022, multiple witnesses heard a loud bang and saw the victim fall to the ground at the East Park Esplanade parking lot while people were leaving a drum circle event.

Family members told KOIN 6 News the victim, Ash Smith, was a mother who had been struggling with homelessness in recent years. Police said Belcher and Smith did not know each other.

After the shooting, Portland police found Belcher nearby, as he was described by witnesses. A search found a .40 caliber Glock 23 holstered to his waistband.

In May 2022, Belcher originally pleaded not guilty to the charges. Then in August of that same year, a judge found him unfit to stand trial and ordered that he be committed to the Oregon Hospital.

In 2024, after a psychological evaluation report was created by the Oregon State Hospital, a hearing was held as to whether Belcher was fit to proceed in a trial, and a judge ruled that he was.

The Multnomah County jury deliberated for one hour before convicting Belcher.