BEAVERTON, OR — An Oregon teenager was convicted of murder, rape, and sexual abuse in the brutal killing of a 13-year-old girl, a crime that sparked widespread shock and grief in the community. The jury handed down its verdict against Daniel Ryan Gore, now 18, who was accused of murdering Milana Li in May 2022.

Gore, who ran away from his Salem home months before the murder, had befriended Milana and lured her to his campsite in the woods, where he later killed her. Prosecutors described Gore as a predator who gained Milana’s trust only to betray her fatally.

Milana was last seen alive on the night of May 8, 2022. By the following morning, her mother reported her missing when she failed to show up at school. A search led authorities to a wooded area in Beaverton, where Milana’s body was found in a creek, covered by a blanket. Evidence linking Gore to the crime scene was later identified in his tent nearby.

After the murder, Gore reportedly attempted to create an alibi by visiting a friend and sending text messages to Milana’s phone. Despite his efforts, surveillance footage and mobile data confirmed their presence together that night.

Investigators discovered disturbing items in and around Gore’s tent, including symbols and a diary referencing violent themes related to a horrorcore rapper, as well as searches indicative of his dark fantasies. However, the prosecution argued that Gore’s act was not influenced by the music but was a deliberate choice.

During the trial, Gore’s defense attorney challenged the evidence, highlighting the absence of Milana’s DNA on Gore and pointing to unidentified DNA found on her belongings. Despite these arguments, the jury swiftly reached a guilty verdict, deliberating for less than 90 minutes.

Milana’s death had a profound impact on her family and those who knew her. Her grandmother, Lydia Li, expressed her deep sorrow, recalling the young girl’s joyful nature and care for her siblings, particularly her younger sister.

The case drew attention to Gore’s troubled background and the juvenile justice system’s handling of his previous offenses. At the time of the murder, Gore was on probation for nonviolent crimes, and there were contentious recommendations regarding his release into his parents’ custody.

With sentencing set for December 2, the Beaverton community continues to grapple with the loss of young Milana Li and the disturbing circumstances surrounding her death.