April 25, 2024 6:00 a.m.  

A Gardiner man has been arrested in a burglary at the Gardiner, Reedsport, and Winchester Bay Salmon Trout Enhancement Program hatchery.

Lieutenant Brad O’Dell of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation began on Monday when deputies were alerted that someone had made forced entry into the hatchery building. O’Dell said once inside, the suspect had poured a chemical substance into one of the rearing ponds causing the death of approximately 15,000 to 20,000 smolt chinook salmon. Deputies processed the scene and began conducting a follow up investigation.

O’Dell said on Tuesday at around 6:30 p.m. a deputy patrolling the area observed a male walking south along Highway 101 near milepost 210. A short time later the deputy walked into the hatchery and saw that same male behind the locked gate and no trespassing signs. The male, identified as 32-year-old Joshua Heckathorn, was contacted and interviewed by the deputy. During the interview, Heckathorn allegedly admitted to trespassing on the property and entering a storage location and handling the chemical bottle on Monday.

O’Dell said deputies arrested Heckathorn and lodged him at the Douglas County Jail on second-degree counts of burglary, criminal trespass and criminal mischief. Due to the number of smolt chinook salmon that were killed in the incident, DCSO is collaborating with the Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Unit on the case.

Sheriff John Hanlin said, “Solving this case is the result of collaboration and good policework”. Hanlin said, “I am proud of the work done by the deputies and have full confidence that the investigation will aid in holding those responsible accountable for their actions”.

Heckathorn was detained without bail and was released on Wednesday.

DCSO was assisted by the Reedsport Police Department.