August 17, 2021 3:50 a.m.
Roseburg Police Chief Gary Klopfenstein has awarded Sergeant Doug Walton with a medal of honor for his actions earlier this year.
A release said on February 22nd just before 3:00 p.m. officers responded to a report of a shooting at the Budget 16 Motel on Northeast Stephens. Off duty Patrol Sergeant Walton was across the street at OK’s Auto Supply gas station getting fuel for his personal vehicle. A release said upon witnessing the shooting, Sergeant Walton immediately called to report the incident. Walton remained on the phone and provided information that was shared with responding law enforcement.
An investigation later revealed that Spring Mack and Jessica Ashley both sustained serious gunshot injuries. Michael Benson was pronounced deceased at the scene and it was determined he succumbed to a gunshot wound.
The release said Walton observed Devin McNamara fleeing the motel parking lot, armed with a handgun but seemingly out of ammunition. Walton observed McNamara flee to a nearby residence and then return, armed with two rifles that he pointed at passing vehicles. McNamara then entered Walton’s pickup and another vehicle at the gas station. Walton continued to provide dispatchers with updated information.
The release said after exiting the second vehicle, McNamara was no longer in possession of the rifles. The suspect made his way to the fuel pumps where he grabbed a pump nozzle and began to release gasoline. Fortunately, an employee at the gas station, Tony MacDonald, recognized what McNamara was doing and shut off the emergency fuel switch.
When the opportunity presented itself, Walton tackled McNamara and kept him physically restrained until officers arrived and took him into custody.
Chief Klopfenstein said throughout this chaotic event, Walton exercised excellent judgement and decision-making. The release said Walton followed department procedure and remained a “professional witness” until he recognized an opportunity to detain the suspect. Chief Klopfenstein said “Sergeant Walton’s actions during this incident were heroic, and very likely saved lives; his selfless actions showed outstanding and exemplary courage to uphold the very oath he swore upon, to protect and serve others.
Chief Klopfenstein also met with Tony MacDonald and presented him with a Letter of Gratitude and a department challenge coin for his actions.