A man has been arrested in Oregon over an alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting at a rock climbing event.
Samson Zebturiah Garner, 39, was taken into custody in Deschutes county after local police were informed by detectives in Portland, Oregon, that the suspect was “planning a violent attack during an event” in the area. According to the Bend Bulletin, Garner had told two acquaintances he intended to harm people at a climbing event in the county, most likely the Alpine Club Craggin’ Classic which is taking place this weekend.
Law enforcement searched Garner’s vehicle and found “evidence of the planned attack”, including a number of firearms. Garner, who had no previous criminal record was charged with attempted murder, first and second-degree attempted assault and unlawful use of a weapon.
Sergeant Jason Wall of the Deschutes County Police Department said that “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.”
On Friday, the American Alpine Club, which organized this weekend’s event, posted a message on Facebook.
“On October 18, the American Alpine Club was made aware of a potential threat to the health and safety of attendees to the Smith Rock Craggin Classic to be held October 20-22, 2023, at Smith Rock State Park,” read the statement.
“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 associated individual was arrested and is now in custody, and authorities are confident there is no continued threat.”
A district attorney’s document listed potential victims of the alleged plot as “Belayer 1,” “Belayer 2,” and “Spectator 1,” and “Spectator 2.” Belayers help operate climbers’ ropes.
Legal representatives for Garner have yet to make a statement. He is being held on $10m bail.
