Eugene, OR – A Mapleton man was arrested Tuesday morning after allegedly menacing residents with a large knife in the town’s business district, according to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office.
According to deputies, the incident began around 7:30 a.m. on November 18 along Highway 126 when callers reported a man allegedly threatening people with a knife near local businesses. Deputies say the suspect, identified as Thomas Lynn Jessop, 29, of Mapleton, allegedly pointed the knife at multiple people and made threatening statements as he advanced toward them. Two armed bystanders reportedly held Jessop at gunpoint as deputies responded from Florence and Veneta.
Before deputies arrived, a bystander sprayed Jessop with bear spray, causing him to drop the knife and remove his clothing, according to the sheriff’s office. Deputies reported that Jessop was initially cooperative during his arrest but later became increasingly agitated. Medics sedated him at the scene and transported him to a nearby hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
After being medically cleared, Jessop was taken to the Lane County Jail, where he was lodged on three counts of Menacing, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Disorderly Conduct, the sheriff’s office said.
Authorities thanked the bystanders who intervened, along with the Oregon State Police, Florence Police Department, and Western Lane Fire & EMS Authority for assisting in the response.
Anyone with additional information or who witnessed the incident is asked to call the Lane County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at 541-682-4150, option 1, and reference Case 25-5621.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
