Salem, Oregon – A Salem man has been charged after allegedly hurling racist remarks at a Hispanic family while holding a shotgun. The incident occurred on Sunday, February 10, 2025, near the 2100 block of Northeast Coral Avenue, prompting local authorities to respond to what has been described as a hate-fueled confrontation.
According to the police report, 34-year-old Jonathan M. Haun approached the family while brandishing a firearm and shouting derogatory, racially charged slurs. Haun is accused of threatening the family with the shotgun, which caused significant distress to the victims.
Authorities were quick to arrive at the scene after the family contacted law enforcement. Haun was arrested without incident and was later charged with three counts of unlawful use of a weapon and three counts of first-degree bias crime. The charges indicate that the alleged attack was not only a criminal act of violence but also motivated by racial animus.
Salem Police Department spokesperson, Officer Brian Stevenson, emphasized the seriousness of the charges. “Bias crimes of any kind are unacceptable, and we are committed to holding individuals accountable for such behavior,” Stevenson stated. “The victim’s safety and the safety of all community members remain our top priority.”
The incident has sparked concern within the Salem community, with local leaders denouncing any form of racial intolerance. Community members have expressed support for the family involved, while also calling for a collective effort to confront hate speech and violence.
As Haun awaits his court appearance, authorities continue to investigate the details surrounding the incident. The case will likely serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges many communities face in the fight against racial hatred.
The victims of the incident have been offered counseling and support services, with several local organizations stepping forward to assist in the aftermath.
Haun’s arrest marks another instance of growing attention to hate crimes, which have become a critical focus of law enforcement and advocacy groups across the United States.
