STABBING INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY IN GOBLE - 10/19/26

Columbia County, Oregon — On October 17, 2026, at approximately 8:16 p.m., Columbia County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the Goble Tavern in Goble, Oregon, following a report of an assault involving a weapon.

Initial reports indicated three people had sustained stab wounds at two separate locations. Investigators responded to the Goble Tavern, where they assisted with immediate medical care for two victims, identified as 46-year-old Sandra Townsend and 51-year-old Chad Smith, both of Rainier, Oregon.

Investigators subsequently located a third victim, identified as 45-year-old Richard Flores, near a rock pit on Nicolai Road. Flores had sustained extensive stab wounds.

Once emergency medical personnel arrived and began providing lifesaving care, investigators began processing both scenes and gathering evidence.

Flores and Smith were transported by Life Flight to Portland-area hospitals for treatment. Townsend was transported by ambulance to a hospital for medical care all three are expected to survive.

This case remains under active investigation. At this time, there are no outstanding threats to the public.

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office will release additional information as it becomes available and as appropriate for the ongoing investigation. 

CCSO would like to thank the Oregon State Police, St. Helens Police, Scappoose Police, Rainier Police as well as the Scappoose Rural Fire District, the Columbia River Fire and Rescue and Columbia 911 for their assistance in this case