Pickup, house damaged by gunfire near Pleasanton

By Roger Sims, rsims@linncountyjournal.com

PLEASANTON – A pickup truck and a home were damaged following reports of gunfire on Wednesday, May 8, in the area of Scott Road west of Pleasanton. Residents in that area reported hearing gunshots that afternoon.

Sheriff Kevin Friend said on Thursday that an investigation into the incident was ongoing. However, he said his office had learned that three people were taking target practice in the area and had possibly not considered what was beyond their target.

That is not the first incident of possible property damage due to gunfire this year. At a Pleasanton City Council earlier this year, Council Member Rochelle Schreckhise said she had received reports of gunfire coming into the city from unidentified shooters from outside city limits.

Upon the completion of the investigation of Wednesday’s incident, the matter will be provided to the Linn County Attorney Burton Harding to consider any criminal charges.

Friend said his department wanted residents to be aware of five essential firearms safety rules:

• Rule 1 – Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.

• Rule 2 – Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

• Rule 3 – Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

• Rule 4 – Know your target and what's beyond it.

• Rule 5 – Secure firearms and ammunition safely.