OSP And Local Agencies Respond To Reports Of Shots Fired From Vehicle - Douglas County - 01/30/26

Douglas County, Ore. (Jan. 30, 2026) - On Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 8:18 a.m., Oregon State Police and local law enforcement agencies responded to multiple 911 calls of a person discharging a firearm from a vehicle on Interstate 5, near milepost 128, in Douglas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated the suspect, now known as Charles Simmons (53) of Winston, was reportedly discharging a firearm from within his Dodge Ram pickup while traveling northbound on the interstate. The suspect reportedly contacted pedestrians, attempted to stop other motorists, and caused a non-injury crash with another vehicle while displaying and at times discharging a firearm.  The suspect was located by law enforcement and taken into custody. There is no indication of on-going danger to the public related to the incident.

After identifying the suspect, it was later learned he had contacted the Roseburg OSP office and made concerning comments related to “foreign” persons driving on I-5. OSP is investigating possible bias crimes in relation to this incident and the suspect’s previous statement.

OSP was assisted by the Roseburg Police Department, Winston Police Department, Sutherlin Police Department, and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

Any witnesses are asked to contact OSP dispatch at 800-442-2068 or *OSP (*677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26032714.