Eugene police arrested wanted man near golf course after search

Eugene, OR – Eugene Police safely apprehended a wanted suspect near a golf course on September 18 following a search in a heavily wooded drainage area.

Officers were conducting a follow-up investigation near E. 30th Avenue and Spring Boulevard at 1:49 p.m. when they learned that the suspect, possibly armed, was in a canyon-like area. Despite eluding police initially, the 21-year-old suspect was safely detained at 27th and Central at 2:44 p.m., with a local resident credited for assisting in the arrest.

Police maintained a significant presence in the area, including patrol units, K9s, and a drone team, and issued a precautionary safety alert.

The suspect, identified as Zachery John Padgett, was transported to Lane County Jail. He faces multiple charges, including second-degree assault, hit and run, two counts of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, attempt to elude, and second-degree criminal mischief. The Eugene Police Violent Crimes Unit investigated the case and continues to examine Padgett’s possible involvement in additional incidents.