Police Respond to Shot Fired at BJs Restaurant
Case No. 17-01923
At 6:30 pm, on February 5, 2017, Eugene Police responded to multiple reports of shots fired inside BJs Restaurant at 1080 Valley River Way. Donald Princeton Bolden was inside the restaurant when he became irate with another customer in the bar watching the Super Bowl. Bolden pulled out a semi-automatic handgun and fired one round, missing the victim, a server, and multiple others patrons.
An off-duty Eugene Police sergeant was inside and heard the shot. As the restaurant evacuated, the sergeant intervened and kept the shooter contained until EPD officers arrived. No one received serious injuries, but one server suffered some hearing loss due to proximity to the gunfire. Bolden was taken into custody and lodged at Lane County Jail on the below charges. Approximately 250 people were inside the restaurant when the incident occurred. BJ’s staff were instrumental in helping evacuate the restaurant and get patrons to safety.
Charges:
Assault 1
Reckless Endangering (six counts)
Unlawful Use of a Weapon
Disorderly Conduct 2
Anyone who directly saw what occurred and was not interviewed at the scene should call to leave a message for Officer Trotter at (541) 682.5111, as he is witness statements.
We remind our community members that when they hear gunfire it is imperative to evacuate immediately rather than stay to see what’s happening. While some patrons left the restaurant, some on-lookers remained. If you are a witness to an incident, get to safety first then call EPD with your information. Help us help you stay safe.
Arrested: Donald Princeton Bolden, age 63, of Florence, OR