EUGENE, Ore. — A 43-year-old man was arrested early Tuesday morning after threatening a store employee with a knife during a robbery attempt at a 7-Eleven on S. Bertelsen Road. The suspect, identified as Matthew Anthony Marks, was charged with robbery and unlawful use of a weapon following the incident.
At approximately 3:15 a.m. on April 1, Eugene Police officers were responding to a separate emergency involving an armed suicidal subject when a new call came in about a man acting disorderly at the 7-Eleven. Despite limited staffing, officers were quickly dispatched to the scene.
Upon arrival, officers located Marks sitting outside the convenience store. According to police, Marks had entered the store earlier and inquired about a lighter. After being shown one, he walked out without paying. When an employee confronted Marks, he allegedly threatened to kill the employee while brandishing a knife.
In response, officers maintained a safe distance from Marks due to the weapon in his possession, issuing verbal commands and informing him that he was under arrest. Marks, however, covered himself with a blanket and refused to comply with the officers’ instructions.
Additional officers were called to the scene to provide support and deploy less-lethal options, but these efforts were unsuccessful. Authorities emphasized the importance of maintaining patience, with officers repeatedly warning Marks about the use of non-lethal tactics. Despite these warnings, Marks continued to resist.
After a brief struggle, officers were able to remove the blanket and secure Marks, who was still holding the knife at the time of his arrest. He was taken into custody without further incident.
Marks was booked into the Lane County Jail on charges of robbery and unlawful use of a weapon. His actions prompted a significant law enforcement response, and authorities are commending the officers for their restraint and professionalism during the encounter.
The incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with suspects who are armed and uncooperative, especially when multiple calls are being handled simultaneously. Eugene Police Department officials have stated that they are committed to ensuring public safety while also utilizing de-escalation tactics in high-risk situations.
The case remains under investigation, and further details may be released as the investigation progresses.
