A tragic murder-suicide in Beaverton, Oregon, has left a father and daughter dead, according to authorities. Police believe 46-year-old Nicholas “Nick” Alexander shot and killed his 16-year-old daughter, Larissa “Juniper” Alexander, before turning the gun on himself. The incident took place at the Baseline Woods Apartments in Washington County, Oregon, on Wednesday morning.
Deputies responded to the scene just before 10 a.m. after receiving a welfare check request from a concerned caller who had not heard from the residents. Upon entering the apartment, deputies discovered the bodies of the father and daughter. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) Violent Crimes Unit responded, and although the incident is being investigated as a murder-suicide, authorities stated there is no threat to the public. The weapon believed to have been used in the shooting was found at the scene.
Nicholas Alexander, a former corrections officer with the Oregon Department of Corrections, had been on leave since October 4, 2023, and was reportedly under internal investigation. His arrest for a DUII earlier that week raised further concerns about his personal struggles. Larissa, a junior at Century High School in Hillsboro, was remembered by her school community, which expressed sorrow over the tragic loss of their student.
The Hillsboro School District described the incident as an “unthinkable situation” and offered support to students and staff as they grieve. Century High School’s principal, Julie Kasper, assured parents that counselors would be available to help the school community cope with the tragedy. “It will take time to heal, but we will get through this together,” Kasper wrote in a letter to parents. The school district is working to support those affected by the loss of Larissa, who was described as a friend and classmate to many.
The investigation into the deaths continues, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at 503-846-2500, referencing case No. 50-24-18037. As the community processes the devastating loss, mental health resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (988) and Oregon Hopeline (833-975-0505) are available for those in need of support.
This heart-wrenching incident has shaken the community, and the memory of Larissa Alexander will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her.