A confrontation over fireworks in a private Salem parking lot ended with a woman shot in the leg after a groundskeeper fired multiple rounds into the ground on Saturday near the 1400 block of Mill Street SE, according to Salem police. Officers said the 24-year-old woman suffered a gunshot wound to her lower leg and was treated at a local hospital. Detectives with the department’s Violent Crimes Unit are investigating the shooting, which remains open, and police say no charges have been filed at this time.
In a news release posted by the Salem Police Department, officers said a 54-year-old man who works as the property’s groundskeeper approached a group of nearly 20 young adults who were lighting fireworks on private property and refusing to leave. According to the release, members of the group began physically assaulting the groundskeeper. Police say he responded by producing a firearm and firing several rounds into the ground, and one of those rounds struck the woman in the lower leg. The department identified the man as a groundskeeper for the property and confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
How Police Say the Encounter Unfolded
Officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of Mill Street SE after a disturbance was reported and found the injured woman at the scene, according to Salem police. Detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit are leading the probe and have asked anyone with information or video of the incident to contact investigators. The department also noted that it regularly posts press releases and updates through FlashAlert, which lists Salem Police media notices.
Investigation and Legal Status
Police reiterated that no arrests or charges have been announced while detectives continue to review evidence and statements. Prosecutors in Marion County would review any case if detectives forward it for charging, and the Salem Police Department said it will provide updates as the investigation develops. Anyone with tips or footage related to the shooting has been asked to contact Salem police.
