Oregon man accused of plotting mass shooting at rock climbing festival faces charges.
An Oregon Man Arrested for Allegedly Planning Mass Shooting at Rock Climbing Event
An Oregon man was arrested on Oct. 21 and charged with allegedly planning to carry out a mass shooting at a rock climbing event in Deschutes County, according to officials.
Law enforcement officers arrested Samson Z Garner, a 39-year-old Portland resident, after receiving information from Portland Police Bureau detectives about an individual who was “planning a violent attack” during an event in the Deschutes County area, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office said in a media release.
Detectives with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office subsequently worked with the Portland Police Bureau throughout the week to investigate Mr. Garner and his alleged planned attack.
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They found that he had left his home in Portland and was in Deschutes County on Oct. 19, according to the media release.
Officials were able to locate Mr. Garner and his vehicle and, working with the SWAT Team members, arrested him without incident.
Evidence of Mr. Garner’s alleged planned attack was later discovered by police during a search.
Mr. Garner was subsequently charged with attempted murder, attempted first-degree assault, attempted second-degree assault, and unlawful use of a weapon.
‘No Continued Threat’
“Detectives have determined there is no continued threat as Garner is now in custody and, at this time the investigation indicates that Garner was acting alone,” the sheriff’s office said. “DCSO detectives are continuing to work on this investigation along with PPB detectives. Any further information will be released by the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office.”
While the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office did not state where Mr. Garner was allegedly planning to carry out the mass shooting, it was widely believed to be at a rock climbing event held by the American Alpine Club, a nonprofit based in Golden, Colorado, according to an Oct. 20 statement posted by the charity.
According to that statement, the American Alpine Club was “made aware of a potential threat to the health and safety of attendees to the Smith Rock Craggin Classic” on Oct. 18.
Suspect Held on $10 Million Bail
“We worked closely with law enforcement agencies and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to monitor the situation and evaluate our ability to host the event, with the safety and well-being of our staff, volunteers, partners, and participants as our top priority,” the American Alpine Club said. “The associated individual was arrested and is now in custody, and authorities are confident there is no continued threat.”
“We are grateful to the law enforcement agencies for their efforts and support during this incident,” the group added.
Deschutes County District Attorney Steve Gunnels told the Bend Bulletin that Mr. Garner—whom he identified as Samson Zebturiah Garner—had informed two acquaintances he planned to shoot people who were rock climbing in Deschutes County.
Police found three handguns and an AR-15 rifle in Mr. Garner’s vehicle following his arrest, the district attorney said, adding that the shooting suspect likely posed a danger to the general public based on his mental health.
According to the district attorney, Mr. Garner was served with an extreme risk protection order; a one-year court order that can ban an individual from buying, attempting to buy, or possessing a firearm, rifle or shotgun if that individual poses a high risk of using them to hurt other people or themselves.
Mr. Garner was arraigned Friday afternoon before Deschutes County Circuit Judge Beth Bagley and is being held on $10 million bail, NBC News reported.
It was not immediately known whether he had legal representation.
What role do events like the planned rock climbing event play in fostering a sense of community and camaraderie?
Ies and volunteers over the course of the event to provide a safe and secure environment,” the statement read. “The alleged threat was addressed immediately by the appropriate parties and we are confident in the steps taken to ensure the safety of our climbing community.”
Garner is currently being held at the Deschutes County Jail on a $10 million bail, according to jail records. It is unclear if he has obtained legal representation at this time.
The incident is another example of the ongoing issue of mass shootings and potential acts of violence that continue to plague communities across the United States. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity or threats to local law enforcement.
Law enforcement agencies, such as the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and the Portland Police Bureau, play a crucial role in preventing and investigating these incidents. Their collaboration and quick action in this case helped to protect the community and apprehend the suspect before any harm could occur.
It is imperative that individuals remain proactive in ensuring the safety of their communities. By staying informed, reporting any concerns, and supporting law enforcement efforts, we can work together to prevent future tragedies.
As the investigation into this case continues, the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office will provide further updates and information regarding the charges against Mr. Garner. Until then, the community can take solace in knowing that there is no continued threat and that law enforcement agencies are diligently working to ensure their safety.
Events like the planned rock climbing event serve as opportunities for people to come together and enjoy shared interests. They should never be marred by the threat of violence. It is important that we support organizations like the American Alpine Club in their commitment to providing safe environments for their participants and continue to participate in these activities to foster a sense of community and camaraderie.
In conclusion, the arrest of Samson Z Garner for allegedly planning a mass shooting at a rock climbing event in Deschutes County is a sobering reminder of the potential dangers that exist in our society. However, it is also a testament to the dedication and effectiveness of our law enforcement agencies in safeguarding our communities. We must remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and support law enforcement efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of all.
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