On October 16, 2023, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) detectives received information from the Portland Police Bureau (PPB). The tip indicated that a Portland resident was allegedly planning an attack during an upcoming event in the Deschutes County area.
DCSO detectives worked in with PPB detectives throughout the week to investigate the individual in question, identified as Samson Garner. Then on October 19, 2023, DCSO detectives learned that Garner had left Portland and was currently in Deschutes County.
DCSO detectives, along with patrol deputies, successfully located Garner and his vehicle. Relying on the information gathered during their investigation, detectives and deputies collaborated with DCSO’s SWAT Team members to apprehend Garner.
At approximately 2:22 PM, Samson Garner was taken into custody without incident. Detectives executed a search warrant on Garner’s vehicle, which led to the discovery of evidence related to the alleged shooting.
Bend television station KTVZ reports that a Deschutes County case information document, refers to at least four potential targeted victims. The document also lists several weapons that the suspect allegedly possessed.
Garner was lodged in the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Jail, facing charges related to the alleged plot, including attempted murder. The Sheriff’s Office expressed its gratitude to the Portland Police Bureau for sharing crucial information that potentially averted a major incident in Deschutes County.
Detectives have determined that there is no ongoing threat, as Garner is now in custody, and current information indicates that he was acting alone.
DCSO detectives, in collaboration with PPB detectives, continue to work on this ongoing investigation.
The Sheriff’s Office is asking the public for any additional information related to this case. If you have information to share, please contact Detective Ben Geist at 541-617-3398.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Source: DCSO
