There is nothing more alarming than a shooting spree that has no reason for the acts. Over the last month, that appears to be happening in Linn County. Could it be in protest against Judge Robert Raschio ruling declaring Measure 114 “facially unconstitutional by a finding of clear and convincing evidence…”

On Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, the Oregon State Police (OSP), Albany Area Command, received a report of a vehicle struck by a bullet. On Tues., Dec. 5, 2023, OSP (Albany) received a second report in a similar area to the Dec. 1 incident. OSP Major Crimes Section detectives immediately began investigating these as possibly connected incidents and now have enough information to believe these shooting incidents are likely connected.

The investigation revealed two other incidents reported to the Albany Police Department and the OSP Salem Area Command prior to Dec. 6. This morning, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office cross-reported another incident in the area of Highway 20 and Highway 226.

The Oregon State Police is actively investigating these random acts of shooting at moving vehicles. All of the victims were driving along highways at the time of the incidents and some reported hearing a “pop.” The dates, times, and locations of each incident are:

• Nov. 2, 2023, 2:00 a.m.- Highway 20, just east of Albany
• Nov. 25, 2023, 9:30 a.m.- Highway 22E, near Mill City
• Dec. 1, 2023, 2:30 a.m.- Highway 20, near Highway 226
• Dec. 5, 2023, 2:00 a.m.- Highway 226, south of Scio
• Dec. 6, 2023, 2:37 a.m.- Highway 20, near Highway 226

At this time, no victims have been injured. However, investigators have confirmed the damage to vehicles was caused by a firearm.

The Oregon State Police is adding extra patrols in the area of these incidents to enhance public safety.

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

OSP is seeking public assistance in identifying potential suspects or suspect vehicles; including any unreported incidents. If you have any information related to these incidents, please contact the Oregon State Police immediately at 1-800-442-2068 or *OSP (*677) on a mobile device.


--Donna Bleiler

Post Date: 2023-12-06 10:53:41

Last Update: 2023-12-06 16:38:37