GRANTS PASS, Ore. — Two men were arrested Tuesday afternoon after a violent altercation at the A Street resting site, which saw one man wielding a tree branch and the other pulling out a handgun.
According to Grants Pass Police, the incident unfolded around 1:21 p.m. on April 8. Officers responded to reports of a fight at 101 NW A Street, where 40-year-old Bobby Swearingen and 34-year-old Kaleb Farmer were involved in a physical confrontation.
Swearingen, armed with a tree branch, allegedly struck Farmer during the altercation. In response, Farmer pulled out a .357 revolver, escalating the situation. Police say Swearingen attempted to flee the scene but was quickly apprehended after a brief chase. It was later revealed that Swearingen had an outstanding parole warrant, which led to his immediate arrest.
As officers continued their investigation, they located Farmer, who reportedly handed over the firearm to police. Farmer was arrested for being a felon in possession of a firearm and for possession of a stolen firearm. Both men were taken into custody and lodged in the Josephine County Jail.
This incident highlights the ongoing concerns over public safety in the area, particularly around the A Street resting site, a known location for transient populations. Investigators are continuing to review the circumstances surrounding the altercation.
Both Swearingen and Farmer are facing serious charges, with Swearingen also facing potential parole violations. The case is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.