The Portland State University is in mourning after the shooting death of a 19-year-old freshman at the hands of her on-again-off-again boyfriend early Monday.
Keenan Harpole reportedly turned himself in after shooting Amara Marluke near the university’s dorms. The former running back for Portland State’s football squad is facing second-degree murder charges.
“This was not random,” Amara’s parents said. “This was domestic violence.”
According to them, the couple had broken up many times but Amara was hoping Harpole’s personality could be changed.
“She was the brightest light in the room. You couldn’t help but fall in love with her,” the victim’s adoptive mom said.
PSU President Stephen Percy also paid tribute to Amara describing her as “an artist and an activist and a vibrant member of our community.”
“I am profoundly affected by the sheer tragedy of this loss. My heart breaks for Amara’s family and for everyone who knew her.”
