UPDATE: Arrests made in shooting death of Hermiston teen
By Griffin Beach on Tuesday, January 13th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
UPDATE 1/14/2026 6:08 A.M.: Hermiston Police Chief Jason Edmiston said they have concluded the investigation resulting in five arrests, including four juveniles.
A 15-year-old Hermiston male has been charged with first degree manslaughter, Edmiston said that male had no known criminal history with Hermiston police or other surrounding agencies. His name has not been released because of his age.
HERMISTON – An 18-year-old male died during after sustaining a gunshot wound during a fight Friday night in Hermiston.
Hermiston Police (HPD) Chief Jason Edmiston says Cristian Lucas Juan De Dios was transported to Good Shepherd Hospital by friends at approximately 9:15 p.m. An HPD officer assigned to the hospital immediately engaged, and the major crime team was activated with assistance from several agencies.
The investigation revealed that De Dios and two friends engaged in a “mutual fistfight” with three other males when De Dios was shot once in the midsection. De Dios died during surgery.
Edmiston said HPD detectives attended the autopsy yesterday in Portland.
He said all involved parties, which includes young adults and juveniles, are known to HPD and that most have been interviewed. Multiple search warrants have been served, and Edmiston said significant evidence has been collected.
Umatilla County District Attorney Dan Primus and staff are also assisting with the investigation, which Edmiston described as very active
De Dios was a senior at Hermiston High School. In response the Hermiston School District released a statement on its website:
HSD Community,
Over the past several days, our school district has experienced moments that remind us how closely connected we are as a community and how important it is to care for one another during difficult times.
When challenges arise, our priority is always the well-being of our students, staff, and families. Our schools are actively providing support, and additional mental health resources are available to students and staff who may need them. We are working closely with school teams to ensure care, stability, and compassion remain at the center of our response.
We recognize that times like these can feel heavy. We encourage everyone to take a moment to check in on one another, extend grace, and reach out for support when needed. No one should navigate difficult moments alone. Thank you for the strength, kindness, and care you continue to show one another. Together, we will continue to support our schools and our community.
