I-205 shooting victim: 'Whoever did this obviously had problems'

By KATU.com Staff Published: May 10, 2012 at 3:37 PM PDT Last Updated: May 11, 2012 at 12:44 AM PDT
I-205 shooting victim: 'Whoever did this obviously had problems' »Play Video
Brian Tierney

PORTLAND, Ore. – The man who was found shot in his car along I-205 in Portland says he is recovering well and hopes to be back doing everyday activities soon.

Brian Tierney, a professional musician, was on his way home from church choir practice on March 28 when he was shot by an unknown assailant. A passerby found Tierney wounded in his car along the highway.

“Whoever did this obviously had problems,” Tierney told a group of reporters during a news conference. “I really hope that somebody out there saw something during this and can come forward.”

Investigators are still looking for leads in the case.

Sgt. Pete Simpson with the Portland Police Bureau said detectives believe the suspect was in a dark-colored Cadillac Escalade with chrome wheels, low-profile tires and tinted windows.

“If it happens to me it can happen to anybody,” Tierney said.

He won't say much about the night he was shot, although the physical reminders are there. His arm is in a sling, he has a scar on his face and he has lots of therapy still to go.

"I would like to thank my wife who has been my nurse, helped me through this difficult time," Tierney said.

He praised the doctors and nurses at Legacy Emmanuel Medical Center where he was treated. He said they took special care to make sure his voice wasn’t damaged during recovery.

“I’m a little tired, but when I sing the range is fine,” Tierney said.

While Tierney isn't speaking openly about the shooting, sources told KATU News he told investigators no words were exchanged between him and the shooter.

Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information about the shooting suspect or if anyone saw a similarly described vehicle driving erratically on southbound I-205 on the night of March 28, 2012.

Anyone with information can leave a tip online at www.crimestoppersoforegon.com; text CRIMES (274637) and in the subject line put 823HELP, followed by your tip; or call 503-823-HELP (4357) and leave your tip information.