Name Released in Investigation of Man Who Shot Himself During Traffic Stop

Police say the man was driving with a suspended license, had no outstanding warrants for his arrest.

Salem-News.com

(SALEM, Ore.) - Police have identified the man who shot himself early Saturday evening shortly after being stopped by an Oregon State Police Sergeant on Highway 22 west of Highway 99W.

30-year old Derrick Girard Guajardo of Woodburn died Sunday morning at Salem Hospital.

Saturday at approximately 6:57 PM, OSP Sergeant David Peterson stopped a 1995 Honda Civic four-door displaying Washington license plates on Highway 22 near milepost 18 for a speed-related violation.

After stopping, Peterson says Mr. Guajardo remained inside the car and placed a gun to his head. Sergeant Peterson took cover and then heard a gunshot.

Mr. Guajardo was discovered suffering a gunshot wound to his head and medical personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene.

He was transported to Salem Hospital where he remained in critical condition until he died about 6:28 AM. Police say Derrick Guajardo, who was driving with a suspended license, had no outstanding warrants for his arrest.

OSP detectives will continue to investigate this incident in conjunction with the Polk County District Attorney's Office, including attempting to determine why he took his life shortly after being stopped.

Sergeant Peterson is assigned at the Salem Area Command office. People who are feeling like they need to talk to someone about suicide can visit OREGON Suicide & Crisis Hotlines for resources.