At approximately 6:03 p.m. on July 28, 2023, Oregon State Police Troopers were dispatched to a vehicle crash on Interstate 5, close to milepost 40. However, while en route, the authorities received information that the vehicles involved in the crash had both fled the scene and were now engaged in a dangerous chase on nearby Kane Creek Road.
The situation took a terrifying turn as shots were fired by one of the drivers during the pursuit. Fortunately, the driver of the second vehicle was not hit by the gunfire but the vehicle itself sustained damage.
Upon arrival at the scene, the State Troopers were able to apprehend the driver responsible for the shooting. The suspect was identified as Jared Cody Hayden from Tidewater, Oregon, and was taken into custody on multiple charges related to the incident.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, an OSP representative told Medford Alert in an email that it was discovered that Hayden had two children with him at the time of the chase and shooting. To ensure their safety, the Department of Human Services was promptly involved, and the children were released to a relative.
Meanwhile, the victim involved in the initial crash fled the scene but was later located. He had sustained minor injuries while attempting to escape the dangerous situation and was taken to the hospital for medical attention.
As the investigation into this disturbing series of events continues, authorities are not releasing any further information at this time.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Source: OSP
