WASHINGTON COUNTY, OR — In a tragic incident believed to be a murder-suicide, 46-year-old Nicholas “Nick” Alexander allegedly shot and killed his 16-year-old daughter, Larissa Alexander, before taking his own life. The incident occurred in an apartment in Beaverton, Oregon. Deputies responded to a welfare check at the Baseline Woods Apartments in unincorporated Washington County shortly before 10 a.m. on Wednesday after a concerned caller reported not hearing from one of the residents.
Upon entering the apartment, deputies discovered the bodies of Nicholas and Larissa Alexander. The WCSO Violent Crimes Unit responded to the scene, and authorities confirmed there is no danger to the public. Deputy David Huey of the WCSO confirmed that Nicholas Alexander, a corrections officer with the Oregon Department of Corrections, is believed to have shot his daughter before turning the gun on himself. The weapon used in the shooting was found in the apartment.
The official cause and manner of death will be determined by the county medical examiner. Nicholas Alexander had been on a leave of absence from his job since October 4 and was the subject of an internal investigation by the Department of Corrections. He was also arrested for a DUII on Monday morning.
Larissa Alexander was a junior at Century High School in the Hillsboro School District. The school district expressed their sorrow in an email, stating, “This is a terrible tragedy and our hearts are heavy. We are doing our best to support students and staff as they process this unthinkable situation and grieve the loss of their friend and classmate.” Century High School’s principal, Julie Kasper, informed parents that counselors would be available on campus to help students and staff cope with the tragedy.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the case to contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at 503-846-2500, referencing case No. 50-24-18037. The community of Aloha, a census-designated place in Washington County, is deeply affected by this tragic event.
For those in need of support, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline is available 24-7 at 988. The Oregon YouthLine can be reached at 877-968-8491, and the Oregon Hopeline is available at 833-975-0505. The community is encouraged to seek help and support during this difficult time.
