PORTLAND, Oregon — It is no secret that social media is shifting human behavior and how we interact. These platforms are also having an impact on Portland’s gun violence.
“Social media certainly plays a part,” said Lt. Ken Duilio of the Portland Police Bureau.
Duilio explained disputes on Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat have triggered some of the recent shootings.
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In June, an argument on social media between two men and their respective girlfriends led to a late-night car chase and shooting in North Portland’s St. Johns neighborhood, according to court documents. 19-year-old Alexander Martinson died after being shot in the back of the head.
Community activist Royal Harris says social media has amplified interpersonal conflicts so they're no longer confined to a few people. Facebook and Instagram are filled with photos and videos of young men displaying weapons on social media.