Madman wielding rifle-shaped bong inside grocery store parking lot locks down part of Oregon town: cops
Man Arrested for Brandishing Bong Shaped Like a Rifle in Oregon Grocery Store Parking Lot
On a seemingly ordinary Friday afternoon in Oregon, chaos erupted in a grocery store parking lot when a man was seen waving what appeared to be a rifle and threatening people. The situation escalated quickly, with police arriving on the scene to apprehend the suspect, only to discover that the weapon in question was actually a massive bong designed to resemble a semi-automatic rifle.
The suspect, identified as 47-year-old Jacob John Daniels, had caused a stir at an Albertson’s and a Bimart Membership Discount Store, where he was allegedly making threats and gesturing with the bong, initially mistaken for a long gun by witnesses and law enforcement.
Upon receiving multiple calls reporting the suspect’s erratic behavior, the Eugene Police Department mobilized a significant response, deploying patrol officers, the Drone Team, and an armored vehicle to the scene. Residents were advised to shelter in place, and motorists were urged to avoid the area for their safety.
When confronted by police, Daniels initially complied with commands to drop the object, but then refused to move away from it. In response, officers utilized a “sponge round” to subdue the suspect without causing serious harm, allowing them to safely disarm him and take him into custody.
Following his arrest, Daniels revealed to investigators that his actions were a desperate cry for help, as he had staged the incident as a way to provoke law enforcement into shooting him. This revelation shed light on the underlying mental health struggles that Daniels was facing, prompting authorities to charge him with disorderly conduct.
It serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for support for those in crisis. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available through resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or SuicidePreventionLifeline.org. In New York City, individuals can also reach out to 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling.
