James Underwood, 49, was found fatally stabbed and lying face down near the Fred Meyer on N. Montana Avenue on March 3, 1996. A Portland autopsy determined he died of multiple stab wounds. Underwood was transient and known to frequent areas around N. Denver and N.

Columbia Avenue; he also did odd jobs at the Palms Motel on N. Interstate, including cleaning rooms. Witnesses described him as sometimes combative, particularly when intoxicated. Over the years police have received several anonymous tips and letters that they have not been able to verify; investigators are still seeking the author of those letters. Crime Stoppers of Oregon has offered a reward for information that leads to an arrest.

Can anyone who knew James or who was in that neighborhood on or around March 3, 1996, provide information to the Portland Police Bureau?