Firearms stolen from Baker City vehicles recovered in La Grande
By Garrett Christensen on Tuesday, January 27th, 2026 in Northeastern Oregon News Northeastern Oregon Top Stories
BAKER CITY — (Press Release from the Baker City Police Department) Baker City, OR – During the evening hours of January 19, 2026, and the early morning hours of January 20, 2026, two suspects from outside the area traveled to Baker City and unlawfully entered multiple vehicles at the trailer park located at 1695 Auburn Avenue.
At least three vehicles were prowled, resulting in the theft of several items from vehicles. Among the stolen property were three firearms, including a Savage .30-06 hunting rifle, an AR-15-style rifle chambered in 7.62mm, and a Taurus 9mm handgun. At the time of reporting, the firearm owners did not have serial numbers readily available.
Over the past week, detectives conducted an extensive investigation that led to the identification and tracking of the stolen firearms to a location in La Grande, Oregon. As a result, detectives, in conjunction with the Northeast Oregon Regional SWAT Team, obtained and executed a search warrant, which led to the recovery of the two rifles. During the course of the investigation, detectives were also able to obtain serial numbers for the handgun and AR-15 through the firearms dealers who originally sold them.
The investigation remains ongoing. Upon completion, the case will be forwarded to the Baker County District Attorney’s Office for review and charging consideration.
This incident underscores the importance of locking vehicles and avoiding the storage of firearms or other valuables inside unattended vehicles. It also highlights the importance of maintaining records of serial numbers for valuable items, as this information significantly aids law enforcement in tracking and recovering stolen property.
Baker City Police Detectives were assisted by Oregon State Police Detectives, deputies from the Union County Sheriff’s Office, and officers from the LaGrande Police Department.
Anyone with questions regarding this incident may contact Lt. Wayne Chastain at 541-524-2014, ext. 602.
