Newport, OR. — The Lincoln County Major Crime Team continues to investigate a violent incident that occurred early Friday, January 2, 2026, in the 1500 block of NW Grove Street.
According to investigators, officers from the Newport Police Department responded to a disturbance call at approximately 12:56 a.m. and discovered one adult male deceased from a gunshot wound and another adult male suffering from multiple stab wounds.
The investigation determined that 42-year-old Matthew Wonser of Newport was shot by a resident of the home after Wonser continued to stab 33-year-old Shawn Knuckey, also of Newport, on the resident’s front porch. Wonser died at the scene from a single gunshot wound.
Knuckey was transported by air ambulance to a Portland-area hospital, where he remains in critical condition after sustaining numerous stab wounds. Investigators determined that Wonser and Knuckey were not known to one another and that the stabbing attack appeared to be random.
During the course of the investigation, officers located identification belonging to 58-year-old Newport resident Robert Peddycoart in Wonser’s possession. A welfare check was conducted at a nearby motel where Peddycoart had been staying. After receiving no response, officers entered the room under the Community Caretaking Doctrine and found Peddycoart deceased.
Following the issuance of a search warrant, investigators determined Peddycoart had been the victim of multiple stab wounds. Authorities said Wonser and Peddycoart were known acquaintances.
At this time, investigators do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the community. The incidents appear to be isolated, and there are no outstanding suspects. No arrests have been made and no charges have been filed.
The investigation remains active and will be forwarded to the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office for review once completed.
The Lincoln County Major Crime Team includes detectives from the Newport Police Department, Lincoln City Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office. The investigation is also being supported by the Oregon State Police Crime Lab.
Anyone with information related to this case is asked to contact Sgt. Mike Leake of the Newport Police Department at 541-574-3348. Tips may also be submitted through the Newport Police Tip Line at 541-574-5455, via Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856, or by email at tipline@newportpolice.net
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