La Grande man recently arrested for pepper-spraying man at gas station in unprovoked attack
By Joe Hathaway on Friday, August 16th, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
LA GRANDE — A La Grande man has been arrested following an investigation into an unprovoked attack that occurred earlier this summer, where he allegedly pepper-sprayed a stranger sitting in their car at a gas station.
Patrick Adam Walker, 40, was taken into custody by the La Grande Police Department in connection with the incident at the Adams Avenue Chevron. Walker has been charged with Assault IV and Unlawful Use of Stun Gun/Tear Gas/Mace II.
The attack took place on June 29, when officers responded to a report of a possible robbery at the Chevron. Upon investigation, police determined that the incident was not a robbery but rather an assault. According to authorities, Walker approached a person who was sitting in their car at the gas pump area and attacked them, spraying the individual with pepper spray.
Walker later told police that he believed the person had been stalking his mother, though no reports were found to support this claim. Walker cooperated with officers during the arrest.
In a separate incident, Walker was cited on August 10 for Criminal Mischief after allegedly breaking a gate at his mother’s residence, causing approximately $100 in damage.
The investigation into the Chevron incident remains active as authorities continue to gather information.
