PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — What began as an Oregon State Police trooper stopping to help a truck driver on I-5 near Salem Monday morning ended with the death of a 31-year-old man who exchanged gunfire with the trooper.
Around 8:40 a.m., the Salem Police said in a release, Trooper Andrew Tuttle stopped to help the truck driver near milepost 254 on northbound I-5. Tuttle found the truck driver “being held at gunpoint” by a man later identified as Felipe Amezcua Manzo.
Tuttle “immediately encountered gunfire” from Manzo and fired back as Manzo ran into the tall grass along I-5, authorities said.
Manzo suffered “gunshot injuries” and found “in the shrubbery” where investigators said he died. A gun was found next to Manzo, the Salem Police said.
A vehicle connected with Manzo was found at the scene and searched by warrant. But officials did not disclose what, if anything, was found inside Manzo’s car.
Tuttle suffered a minor injury that did not require any extra attention. The 7-year veteran with OSP is currently on administrative leave, standard procedure in these situations.
That section of northbound I-5 was closed for more than 6 hours during the investigation.
A woman who said she was driving on the freeway when it happened told KOIN 6 News she was stuck for hours before being let through. When she was finally able to pass, she reported seeing multiple cars with shattered windows.
Officials said no more information will be released as the investigation continues until a Marion County Grand Jury reviews the evidence.
KOIN 6 News will continue to follow this story.