Salem, Oregon – A late-night disturbance at a northeast Salem bar quickly escalated into a dangerous police incident involving a firearm, a vehicle crash, suspected cocaine, and the arrest of two young men early Saturday morning. Authorities say quick action by officers prevented further harm after reports indicated a gun may have been involved in the altercation.
Incident Overview
Salem Police responded to reports of a fight involving multiple people at Mikey’s Bar and Grill on Liberty Street NE at approximately 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 7. According to police, a 9-1-1 caller warned that at least one person involved in the fight may have been armed, raising immediate safety concerns for patrons, staff, and responding officers.
Upon arrival, officers observed individuals attempting to leave the area in separate vehicles, prompting an active response to locate and detain those believed to be connected to the incident.
Timeline of Events
Police say one suspect fled on foot shortly after officers arrived. During the chase, officers reportedly saw the individual discard a firearm near a parked vehicle before being taken into custody a short distance away.
At the same time, officers attempted to stop another vehicle believed to be linked to the bar fight. Instead of stopping, the driver allegedly fled the scene, leading to a short pursuit that ended when the vehicle crashed into a nearby fence.
Both incidents occurred within minutes of police arrival, highlighting how rapidly the situation escalated from a bar fight into multiple public safety threats.
Details From Police
The suspect who fled on foot was identified as Demetre Marseille, 20, of Salem. Witnesses told officers they observed Marseille threatening bar security staff and patrons with a handgun during the altercation.
During a search incident to arrest, officers reportedly recovered several baggies of a white powdery substance believed to be cocaine. The firearm discarded during the chase was also recovered by police.
The second suspect was identified as Edgar Juarez-Juarez, 23, of Salem, who police say was driving the vehicle that fled from officers. His vehicle crashed into a fence a short distance from the bar.
Crash and Vehicle Search
Following the crash, Juarez-Juarez and his passenger were transported to Salem Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. No life-threatening injuries were reported.
Police later obtained a search warrant for the vehicle involved in the crash. During the search, officers discovered another firearm inside the car. Authorities noted that the gun’s serial number had been removed, which can complicate efforts to trace the weapon and often leads to additional criminal charges.
Key Facts of the Case
- Location: Mikey’s Bar and Grill, Liberty Street NE, Salem
- Time: Approximately 1:30 a.m., Saturday, February 7
- Suspect 1: Demetre Marseille, 20, of Salem
- Suspect 2: Edgar Juarez-Juarez, 23, of Salem
- Weapons Recovered: Two firearms, including one with a removed serial number
- Suspected Drugs: Cocaine recovered in multiple baggies
- Injuries: Minor injuries reported following a vehicle crash
Charges Filed
Marseille was lodged at the Marion County Jail on multiple charges, including:
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm
- Unlawful Use of a Weapon
- Menacing
- Unlawful Delivery of Cocaine
Police said additional charges could be considered as the investigation continues, particularly in relation to the firearms recovered and the attempted flight from officers.
Public Safety and Awareness
Incidents involving firearms in crowded public spaces such as bars pose a significant risk to community safety. Police continue to urge residents and business owners to report suspicious behavior immediately and avoid intervening directly in volatile situations.
Authorities also emphasize that fleeing from police can dramatically increase the danger for everyone involved, including bystanders, passengers, and responding officers.
Conclusion
What began as a bar fight in northeast Salem quickly escalated into a serious criminal investigation involving guns, drugs, and a vehicle crash. Salem Police say the situation could have resulted in far more severe consequences if not for the rapid response by officers and cooperation from witnesses.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities review evidence and determine whether additional charges will be filed.
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