Road Rage in Portland: Geoffrey Hammond Convicted in Shooting Incident
Geoffrey Hammond, an Uber driver, has been convicted of assault with a firearm and unlawful use of a firearm in connection with a deadly road rage confrontation in downtown Portland. Despite these convictions, the jury was unable to reach a consensus on the charges of murder and attempted murder, prompting the judge to declare a mistrial for those counts.
The 48-year-old Hammond faced multiple charges, including second-degree murder, attempted murder, assault with a firearm, and two counts of unlawful use of a weapon. These charges arose from a violent altercation that led to the death of a motorist and injuries to a bystander. Hammond denied all charges, asserting that he acted in self-defense.
The case, which began in early December, concluded with nearly three days of jury deliberation. On Monday, the judge accepted the jury’s verdicts on three counts while dismissing the unresolved charges of murder and attempted murder due to a deadlock.
The incident occurred on October 11, 2023, when Hammond parked his Mercedes SUV near the Moxy Hotel in downtown Portland. Court records and surveillance footage revealed that Hammond’s vehicle was partially obstructing a traffic lane. Moments later, Ryan Martin, a 47-year-old motorist, passed by, leading to a brief but hostile exchange of gestures between the two drivers. Martin soon parked his car and approached Hammond’s driver-side window, initiating a heated confrontation.
While the security footage lacks sound, witnesses described raised voices and escalating tension. The footage shows Martin standing by Hammond’s car before suddenly collapsing to the ground as gunfire erupted. Nearby pedestrians scrambled for cover, and additional footage captured Hammond continuing to aim his gun at Martin. Hammond later admitted to police that he had attempted to fire again, but his weapon jammed.
Approximately two minutes after the initial shooting, Sam Gomez, a bystander exiting the Moxy Hotel, approached the scene. Observing Martin lying on the ground and Hammond still in his vehicle, Gomez began recording the aftermath with his phone. Hammond responded by firing at Gomez, striking him in one leg and causing a severe fracture in the other. Despite his injuries, Gomez survived. Hammond also fired a second shot at Gomez while leaving the scene, but this shot missed.
Hammond then called 911 as he drove through downtown, reporting that he had shot two individuals and was en route to the Multnomah County Courthouse. He surrendered to authorities upon arrival.
During the trial, Hammond’s defense argued that he feared for his safety and believed both Martin and Gomez posed potential threats. His attorney claimed that Hammond deliberately aimed for Martin’s shoulder to avoid a fatal injury. However, prosecutors countered these claims with evidence showing that Hammond admitted to seeing Martin was unarmed as he approached. They also highlighted security footage and witness accounts to dispute Hammond’s narrative of self-defense, asserting that his actions were reckless and unwarranted.
The case will continue on January 8, when a sentencing hearing will be scheduled for the convictions already rendered.
This tragic case highlights the far-reaching impact of road rage and firearm misuse. For families mourning the loss of a loved one due to such incidents, seeking justice can be an overwhelming process. Portland wrongful death attorneys play a vital role in helping families navigate these complex legal matters, ensuring their rights are protected and their voices heard during such difficult times.
This case is a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding self-defense claims and the importance of a fair legal process. It emphasizes the need for clear legal standards and careful examination of evidence to ensure justice is served. As such, it holds significant importance not only for the individuals involved but also for broader discussions about accountability and the responsible use of firearms in high-stress situations.
