Exchange of Gunfire between Two Citizens Results in One being Jailed
A 47-year-old Cave Junction man is in the Josephine County Jail following what was described by neighbors and witnesses as an exchange of gunfire that began just after 2 p.m. Sunday afternoon.
According to the Sheriff’s narrative, a man identified as Michael David Baze, entered a home in the 400 block of Fir Drive to confront another person about a $100 gift card that Baze believed the individual had stolen. An argument ensued between the two with another woman present in the living room.
During the altercation Baze retrieved a .22 caliber rifle from a bedroom and pointed it as both his adversary and the woman. The woman attempted to disarm Baze but was pushed to the ground. Baze excited the house, walking west on Fir Drive.
The reporting person saw Baze’s adversary step outside and heard a gunshot, with the bullet allegedly striking a puddle approximately 20 feet from Baze. Baze turned and fired twice in his adversary’s direction.
Neighbors and a utility worker all notified 911 with the utility worker stating a bullet came within 20 feet of his location with one caller stating his neighbors were shooting at each other.
Baze left the area on foot with the Oregon State Police joining the pursuit through Jubilee Park toward Old Stage Road where he was taken into custody at gunpoint and the .22 rifle was secured.
Baze was transported to the Josephine County Jail and lodged facing charges of menacing/aggravated assault, pointing a firearm at another and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Further charges are pending. No one was injured during the incident.
