Quintana is returned to Umatilla County

By Terry Murry on Wednesday, October 13th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

PENDLETON – Joseph Robert Quintana, 18, of Pendleton has been returned to Umatilla County Jail to face an attempted murder charge. He was arrested on Sept. 28 in Grandview, Washington on a felony warrant in the shooting that left David Salazar of Pendleton with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. It occurred in the area of Southwest Frazer Avenue and Southwest Fourth Street on Aug. 13.

Attempted murder isn’t the only felony charge Quintana is facing. He is also charged with first- and second-degree assault and unlawful use of a weapon. Two misdemeanor charges are also lodged against him. They are menacing and reckless endangering. His bail is set at $1.6 million.

Pendleton police reported that the investigation led detectives to Quintana based on video surveillance as well as statements from the victim and others. They also received information that the suspect had fled the state. Yakima County’s Violent Offender Task Force located Quintana and, after a short foot chase which included deploying a K9, took him into custody.

Police stress that Salazar did not know Quintana or another man who was on foot with him. The two began calling out and making gestures, so Quintana circled around to talk to them. They assaulted him and he left the area to telephone police. While he was trying to dial 911, police say he was shot. He has since made a full recovery.