Authorities are investigating a deadly overnight standoff in Marion County after deputies exchanged gunfire with an armed man Sunday evening, March 29, 2026.
According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 7:08 p.m. to a reported domestic disturbance at a residence on West Stayton Road Southeast in Aumsville. A 911 caller who had fled the home met deputies at the scene and guided them back inside.
Deputies Benjamin Theodoriches and Ricky Kittleson made contact with 47-year-old Brian Guy Baker, who was reportedly armed. An altercation quickly escalated, and preliminary radio reports indicate deputies were fired upon. Officers returned fire before retreating from the residence along with other occupants. Fortunately, no deputies or residents were seriously injured during the incident.
Baker refused repeated commands to exit the home and surrender, prompting a prolonged standoff that lasted several hours. The Marion County SWAT team, assisted by the Oregon State Police, entered the residence at approximately 2:15 a.m. Monday. Baker was found deceased inside the home. Investigators believe his death may have resulted from self-inflicted injuries, though the official cause and manner of death will be determined by the Oregon State Medical Examiner.
In accordance with state protocol for deadly force incidents, the Salem Police Department has taken the lead on the investigation, with support from the Oregon State Police and other agencies. A search warrant for the residence was authorized by Marion County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Hart.
Officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, and no additional details will be released at this time in order to preserve the integrity of a future grand jury review.
