On the morning of October 6, 2024, the wrestling community and two nations were shaken by the sudden and violent death of 22-year-old Lee Mauras. A rising star in the sport, Mauras was fatally shot in downtown Portland, Oregon, near West Burnside Street and Southwest 3rd Avenue. Police arrived at the scene after receiving reports of gunfire at 2:41 a.m. and found Mauras lying in a parking lot. His death has been classified as a homicide, and the Portland Police Bureau has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. As of now, no arrests have been made, leaving the family and the wrestling community in a state of grief and uncertainty.
Originally from Freeport, New York, Lee Mauras had forged a promising career in wrestling, becoming a key figure in both the New York USA Wrestling community and the Puerto Rico National Wrestling Team. His passion for the sport was evident early on, as he trained with the renowned Savage Wrestling Academy. Throughout his wrestling journey, Mauras earned numerous accolades, including being a four-time Nassau County medalist, a three-time finalist, and a back-to-back champion in 2019 and 2020. His relentless dedication and skill led him to represent Puerto Rico in the 2024 Senior Greco-Roman Pan-American Championships, where he competed in the 67kg division, further solidifying his reputation as an athlete to watch.
Despite his significant achievements on the mat, those who knew Mauras often highlighted his character off the mat. Described by many as a loving father and a dedicated friend, Mauras was admired not just for his athletic prowess but also for his devotion to his young son. At just 22, Mauras was already balancing the demands of a competitive sports career with the responsibilities of fatherhood, and his loss is felt deeply by both his family and the wider community. His death has left a void not only in the lives of his loved ones but also in the wrestling world, which had watched him with great anticipation as his career flourished.
In a statement, New York USA Wrestling expressed their heartbreak over the loss: “We are devastated by the senseless tragedy that took Lee from us. He was not only a promising athlete with so much potential but also a father, a friend, and a beloved member of our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this unimaginable time.” Similarly, members of the Puerto Rico National Team mourned the loss of one of their standout athletes, with many sharing tributes to Mauras and his contributions to the sport.
In the wake of this tragedy, Mauras’ family is facing not only emotional but also financial challenges. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the family with legal fees and travel expenses as they seek justice for Mauras’ death. The funds will also help the family cover costs related to court proceedings in Oregon, allowing them to be present as the investigation continues. The online campaign has already received support from both the wrestling community and the public, with many offering donations and words of encouragement to Mauras’ grieving family.
The Portland Police Bureau has made an urgent call for anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Homicide detectives are actively working to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, but details remain scarce at this point. Authorities are particularly interested in any witnesses or surveillance footage from the area that could provide clues as to what happened. The Entertainment District, where the shooting took place, is a popular late-night destination in Portland, making it a likely spot for witnesses or camera footage.
The loss of Lee Mauras has reverberated beyond the wrestling world, affecting not only his close-knit community in New York and Puerto Rico but also athletes, coaches, and fans worldwide. His death serves as a stark reminder of the senseless violence that continues to claim the lives of young people. As his family and friends seek justice, the hope remains that those responsible for this tragic act will be held accountable.
In the meantime, Mauras’ legacy lives on in the memories of his loved ones and in the wrestling accomplishments he achieved in such a short but impactful life. His story underscores the fragility of life and the importance of remembering those who leave an indelible mark on their communities, whether on the wrestling mat or in the hearts of those who knew them best.