Homicide on Umatilla Indian Reservation under Investigation

MISSION, OR – On May 25, 2022, at approximately 4:00 pm, Kawlija Nicoah Scott was arrested by Umatilla Tribal Police on probable cause that he committed homicide on the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Scott, a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), is alleged to have stabbed Gabriel David Freeman earlier on May 25 at the victim’s residence, resulting in his death. Scott fled the scene and was soon after apprehended by Umatilla Tribal Police and arrested on a Tribal charge of homicide.  The case is being investigated by Tribal Police with assistance from the FBI. 

Given the nature of the allegations both the CTUIR, pursuant to its inherent jurisdiction, and the United States, pursuant to the Major Crimes Act, have concurrent jurisdiction over this case.