Deschutes County, OR. — On November 10, 2025, Deschutes County Judge Alison Emerson sentenced 41-year-old Portland resident Samson Garner to 30 years in prison for Attempted Murder and related charges stemming from his plan to carry out a mass shooting at a Smith Rock State Park event in October 2023.
Garner had outlined his intent to attack a climbing event, knowing that hundreds of people would be present. He described recurring homicidal thoughts, fantasies of vengeance, and a desire to cause terror and emotional trauma among onlookers.
Authorities intervened in August 2023, one day before the event began. Garner had driven from Portland to Deschutes County after weeks of isolation, carrying multiple firearms, body armor, and a tactical vest filled with ammunition, including armor-piercing rounds. Deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) apprehended him before he could act.
“The conviction of Samson Garner is the result of outstanding investigative work and interagency collaboration that undoubtedly saved lives,” said Sheriff Ty Rupert. “Our Detectives Unit, with vital support from Patrol Deputies, worked closely with the Portland Police Bureau and the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office to track Garner’s movements, gather critical evidence, and build a strong case that ensured justice was served.”
Portland Police Chief Bob Day praised the collaboration, noting, “The diligent work by law enforcement prevented a horrific tragedy. The remarkable professionalism and seamless coordination across law enforcement—from PPB patrol officers and detectives to our threat assessment team, behavioral health, and our partners at the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office—ensured that nothing fell through the cracks. And it all began with a tip from the community who recognized that one individual could pose a significant danger.”
Senior Deputy District Attorneys Mary Anderson and Stacy Neil prosecuted the case. After reviewing over 100 exhibits and testimony from dozens of witnesses, a jury found Garner guilty on all 26 felony counts.
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