A Portland man has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for fatally shooting a 26-year-old mother of three during a street fight outside an Oregon bar in 2023.
What Happened?
On October 15, 2023, around 4 a.m., a fight broke out outside a bar near Southeast Foster Road and Southeast 86th Avenue in Portland. William Watson, 34, opened fire during the chaos — striking three people on the sidewalk.
Cali Bolden, a 26-year-old mother of three, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two others were rushed to a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Who Was Cali Bolden?
Bolden was on the sidewalk when the shooting broke out. She had no involvement in the fight.
Her eldest son had turned 8 years old just the day before her death. He was waiting at home to celebrate his birthday with her when she returned.
The Defendant
Watson was a member of the Outcast motorcycle club and had traveled to Portland for a club party. When a fight spilled onto the street, he began firing.
He admitted to pulling the trigger but told the court he never saw Bolden at the time of the shooting.
Guilty Plea and Sentence
Watson originally faced second-degree murder charges. On Monday he pleaded guilty to:
- First-degree manslaughter
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Attempted first-degree assault with a firearm
He was sentenced to 22 years in prison with credit for time served.
Co-Defendant Still Awaiting Trial
A second suspect, Candice Hicks, 34, was also arrested in connection with the case. She has pleaded not guilty. Her trial is expected to begin in February 2027.
Family Speaks
Despite their grief, Bolden’s family offered words of forgiveness in court. Her eldest son addressed the defendant directly, saying he forgave him — but that forgiveness could not undo the loss his siblings would carry for the rest of their lives.
— Coverage by thecmeaglet.com
