A Central Oregon court has delivered a 30-year prison sentence to a man who plotted a mass shooting at a major climbing festival — a deadly scheme that was thwarted at the last moment by law enforcement. The man, identified as 41-year-old from Portland, was found guilty of multiple felony charges after he was stopped en route to the 2023 climbing event with weapons, tactical gear, and ammunition in his vehicle.
Plot Uncovered Ahead of Event
During the preparations for the 2023 climbing festival at a state park, authorities received a tip regarding a possible violent threat from an individual known to have spoken of mounting a mass attack. Acting on this warning, law enforcement tracked the suspect — who drove from Portland to Central Oregon the day before the event — and arrested him before the gathering of hundreds could begin.
When stopped, he was found with multiple firearms (including at least one long gun and two handguns), ammunition — some reportedly armor-piercing — body armor, and a tactical vest. Investigators said the large cache of weapons and gear indicated preparation for serious violence.
Court Conviction: Multiple Charges, Harsh Sentence
In September 2025, a jury convicted the man on 26 counts, including first-degree attempted murder, assault, and unlawful weapons possession.
During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence including alleged communications in which the suspect described intentions to shoot both spectators and climbers at the event. In a written message to a former partner, he reportedly described disturbing visions of mass violence — though he later claimed the message was a cry for help and that he had contemplated suicide.
Nevertheless, the jury took just over two hours to deliberate and returned guilty verdicts on all counts. The sentencing — 30 years behind bars — reflected the severity of the intended crime and the danger he posed.
Law Enforcement Praised for Preventing Tragedy
After the arrest, officials from the local sheriff’s office and the city police commended the seamless coordination across multiple agencies. Their prompt response and investigation are credited with averting what could have been one of the deadliest mass-shooting events in recent years. “The diligent work by law enforcement prevented a horrific tragedy,” said the city’s police chief.
The climbing festival — which attracts many outdoor-enthusiasts and families — was spared from disaster thanks to this interdiction. Organizers and regional authorities reaffirmed their commitment to security during public events.
