A Clackamas County grand jury has ruled that the use of deadly force by a local sheriff's deputy was justified during a November incident. The finding comes following a review of evidence and testimonies relating to the confrontation with 44-year-old Daniel Dale Zimmerman, as detailed in a Clackamas County news release.
The incident, which occurred on Nov. 9, was catalyzed by a 911 call from Zimmerman's father, who reported that his intoxicated son was out of control and had set a utility trailer on fire. Zimmerman, according to his father, had a history of mental health issues and encounters with the law. The father, fearing the situation was escalating, relayed these worries as Zimmerman could be heard yelling in the background during the call. Deputy Lindsay Bailey and Oregon State Police Trooper Garrett Bailey, no relation, were promptly dispatched to the scene, both equipped with body cameras.
Upon their arrival, Deputy Bailey met with flames estimated to be 20-30 feet high. Zimmerman was observed near the fire and quickly advanced toward the deputy, ignoring multiple warnings to show his hands and halt his approach. Zimmerman's non-compliance led to Deputy Bailey discharging her firearm, striking Zimmerman in the torso simultaneously as Trooper Bailey deployed his taser.
Zimmerman received immediate medical attention and was admitted to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center in Portland. Although his injury was serious, surgery was unnecessary. He is presently facing charges of Menacing and two counts of Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree, with a trial date set for Jan. 9, 2026. The review process by the grand jury took place over Dec. 10 and concluded with a unanimous decision favoring Deputy Bailey's actions.
The decision's backdrop is an extensive investigation by the Clackamas County Major Crimes Team in partnership with the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office. Leading detectives from West Linn and Lake Oswego Police Departments oversaw inquiries into the matter. Deputy Bailey, a certified police officer since 2021, has served with the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office since July 2024, bringing her experience to bear during the described altercation.
