COTTAGE GROVE — A Cottage Grove man was arrested following a domestic dispute Saturday night that led to a brief manhunt.
At about 10:20 p.m. on April 12, Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a physical altercation in the 32100 block of Rachel Road. The victim separated from the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Devin Derry Morgan.
Deputies learned that Morgan had fled the scene along nearby railroad tracks. Following an investigation, they developed probable cause to arrest him on charges of strangulation and fourth-degree assault. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Additional deputies and law enforcement officers from Springfield established a perimeter around the area. K9 Tito, accompanied by his handler, was deployed to assist in the search. Springfield police also provided a drone to aid the effort.
During the search, deputies found that Morgan had injured himself while attempting to escape. K9 Tito located him hiding under a tree several hundred yards away. Morgan was arrested without further incident.
He was taken to an area hospital for treatment before being lodged at the Lane County Jail.
Springfield, Cottage Grove, and Oregon State police for their assistance in the case. Community donations help cover the costs of food, veterinary care, and equipment for the K9 Unit.
