PORTLAND, Ore. – After more than four years of waiting, the family of William Kendrick says they are finally a step closer to justice. On Friday, the man accused of killing Kendrick in a 2021 northeast Portland shooting appeared in court for the first time.
The Arraignment
Daundre Willis, the accused shooter, faced a crowded courtroom on Friday during his arraignment. Among those present were Kendrick’s family and close friends, many of whom said the day had been long-awaited but emotionally difficult.
“This was something that we were told was going to be a couple years down the road, then we got a call yesterday that this was happening,” said Amanda, a longtime friend of Kendrick, outside the courtroom.
Inside, Willis listened as Loretta Kendrick, the victim’s sister-in-law, addressed the court on behalf of the family.
“We are here because we have been waiting four long years for justice to be served for our brother,” she said.
The 2021 Shooting
On the night of June 17, 2021, police say Kendrick was shot near Northeast 74th Avenue and Glisan Street. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but did not survive his injuries.
Amanda recalled the devastating way the family learned of his death.
“It was awful. I was at work and the family wasn’t notified right away, so we didn’t find out until the next day. It was horrendous,” she said.
Years of Waiting
For Kendrick’s loved ones, the years since the shooting have been filled with unanswered questions. Each year, they gathered at the memorial they built near the site of his death, determined to honor his memory while hoping for accountability.
“To me, there is never a reason why on a Thursday night in Portland at 10:30 that someone should worry about being shot and left in the street to die. I don’t know if we will get a why,” Amanda said.
Friday’s arraignment marked the first tangible step forward in the case.
“It doesn’t bring him back, but to know there is not somebody who is walking around who is a dangerous person in the streets is a good feeling,” Amanda added.
Family and Community Reaction
The courtroom appearance was both a relief and a challenge for Kendrick’s loved ones, who had prepared themselves to finally face the man accused of taking his life.
Seeing Willis in person, they said, stirred emotions of grief and anger but also determination to see the case through.
The Kendrick family expressed gratitude for the support they have received from the community over the years and hope the trial will provide clarity and closure.
Looking Ahead
Willis is expected to return to court on September 26. Until then, Kendrick’s family and friends say they will continue to honor his memory at the memorial site and press forward with their pursuit of justice.
The case remains a reminder of Portland’s ongoing struggle with gun violence. For Kendrick’s family, the hope is that this arrest will prevent further harm and finally deliver answers they’ve sought since that tragic summer night.
Conclusion
The arrest and arraignment of Daundre Willis marks a significant moment for the family of William Kendrick, who for more than four years have lived with grief and uncertainty.
While nothing can bring Kendrick back, his loved ones say knowing that someone is being held accountable provides a measure of peace.
“We’ve waited too long for this day,” Amanda said. “Now we just want justice.”
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