Astoria, OR – A former maintenance manager at the Clatskanie School District has filed a lawsuit against the district, claiming he was wrongfully terminated following a controversial incident in November 2023, when he shot and killed a deer in an open field. Paul Simmons, who had worked for the district for several years, argues that he was merely “blowing off steam” when the event occurred and insists that he was unaware he was trespassing on private property.
The incident took place on November 3, 2023, when Simmons, 55, left work and shot the deer along Swedetown Road. The Oregon State Police later cited him for trespassing, unlawful hunting, and official misconduct—charges that are classified as misdemeanors. While Simmons maintains that the shooting occurred during personal time and not while on the job, the Clatskanie School District maintains that he had left work without permission and was on district property when the incident occurred.
Following the citation, the district fired Simmons later that month, citing the criminal charges as the reason for his termination. In the lawsuit, Simmons claims that his firing was unjustified and that the charges should not have led to his dismissal. He is seeking $677,000 in damages, which includes back pay, future wages, and compensation for emotional distress.
Simmons took a plea deal in the criminal case and entered a diversion program. However, his legal battle with the district continues as he seeks redress for what he believes was an unlawful termination.
The outcome of the lawsuit could have significant implications for how similar cases involving personal conduct outside of work are handled by public institutions. The Clatskanie School District has not yet commented on the pending litigation.
