Medford, Ore. – A 38-year-old man is in custody after a shooting left another man critically injured Wednesday afternoon near the Bear Creek Greenway. Authorities report that the incident unfolded near 8th Street, where officers responded to multiple calls about the altercation.
Upon arrival, Medford Police found the victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Medford Fire personnel and Mercy Flights medics quickly provided life-saving measures before the victim was transported to a local hospital. Due to the severity of his injuries, the victim was later airlifted to a hospital in Portland, where he remains in critical condition.
Witnesses at the scene were instrumental in helping officers identify the suspect, 38-year-old William Triplett. Law enforcement quickly located and detained Triplett near the Village at Medford Center shortly after the shooting. He was later booked into the Jackson County Jail and faces a charge of first-degree assault.
According to a preliminary investigation, the altercation began as a verbal dispute between the suspect and the victim. Authorities believe the situation escalated quickly, leading to the shooting.
The scene was cordoned off for evidence collection, with investigators working into the evening. The area was reopened around 8:00 p.m.
Medford Police continue to investigate the incident, urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Anyone with details is encouraged to contact the Medford Police Department.
The shooting marks another violent incident in the area, underscoring concerns about safety along the Bear Creek Greenway. As of now, the investigation remains ongoing.