Douglas County, OR. — A Winston man was taken into custody Thursday morning after multiple reports of a person discharging a firearm from a moving vehicle on Interstate 5 in Douglas County, authorities said.
According to the Oregon State Police, troopers and local law enforcement responded at approximately 8:18 a.m. on January 29, 2026, to several 911 calls reporting gunfire near milepost 128 on northbound I-5.
A preliminary investigation determined the suspect, identified as Charles Simmons, 53, of Winston, was allegedly firing a weapon from inside a Dodge Ram pickup while traveling northbound. Investigators said Simmons reportedly approached pedestrians, attempted to stop other motorists, and caused a non-injury crash with another vehicle while displaying — and at times discharging — a firearm.
Law enforcement later located Simmons and took him into custody. Authorities said there is no indication of an ongoing danger to the public related to the incident.
After the arrest, troopers learned Simmons had previously contacted the OSP office in Roseburg and made concerning statements involving “foreign” persons driving on I-5. OSP said it is investigating whether the incident and the prior statements constitute bias-related crimes.
OSP was assisted by the Roseburg Police Department, Winston Police Department, Sutherlin Police Department, and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators are asking any witnesses to contact OSP dispatch at 800-442-2068 or dial *677 from a mobile phone. Callers are asked to reference case number SP26032714.
Charges are allegations, and the suspect is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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