Crime & Safety
Oregon Robbery: Hatchet-Wielding Suspect Flees on Bicycle
Cave Junction, OR – A reported armed robbery at a Cave Junction business ended with a 37 year old man in custody after authorities say he threatened a victim with a hatchet, stole more than $1,000 in
By Cole Barrett · 2026-11-02T20:33:38.511Z
Cave Junction, OR – A reported armed robbery at a Cave Junction business ended with a 37 year old man in custody after authorities say he threatened a victim with a hatchet, stole more than $1,000 in merchandise and attempted to escape deputies on a bicycle.
According to the Josephine County Sheriff 's Office, deputies responded to Shop Smart at approximately 6:02 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1, following reports of a robbery involving a man armed with a hatchet.
Investigators identified the suspect as Wayne Patrick Baker, 37.
Authorities allege Baker repeatedly threatened the victim with the hatchet before fleeing the store with merchandise valued at more than $1,000.
The situation escalated when deputies located the suspect along Highway 199.
While responding to the robbery, deputies spotted Baker riding a bicycle near Laurel Road and the Lil' Pantry/Sinclair gas station.
Deputies attempted to stop him, but Baker allegedly refused their commands and continued fleeing.
During the attempted arrest, deputies positioned a patrol vehicle alongside a highway guardrail to block his escape route.
Investigators reported that Baker attempted to maneuver around the vehicle and intentionally struck its front bumper with his bicycle, damaging the patrol vehicle.
Despite the confrontation, deputies ultimately took Baker into custody without further incident.
Six potential criminal charges have been referred to prosecutors for review.
The Josephine County Sheriff's Office identified the recommended charges as first degree robbery, unlawful use of a weapon, first degree theft, menacing, first degree criminal mischief and resisting arrest.
The case has been forwarded to the Josephine County District Attorney's Office for review. Authorities have not confirmed whether prosecutors have formally filed the charges.
The sheriff's office did not release additional details about the victim, whether injuries occurred or whether the stolen merchandise was recovered.
The investigation is documented under case number 26 29994.
Baker is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.