Workplace Dispute Leads to Shooting at Sisters Restaurant
Suspect arrested after short pursuit along Highway 20; victim expected to recover
Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office
SISTERS, Ore. — A workplace-related dispute led to a shooting at a Sisters restaurant Tuesday morning, followed by a brief police pursuit that ended with the suspect’s arrest between Sisters and Bend, according to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were dispatched at approximately 8:19 a.m. to reports of a shooting at Spoons Restaurant. Investigators say 31-year-old Kristopher Kirkpatrick entered the restaurant posing as a customer before confronting the victim, a former coworker. Detectives report Kirkpatrick shot the victim at close range in the face using a Saber-brand pistol capable of firing pepper balls and rubber projectiles.
Authorities say the suspect then chased the victim through the restaurant while continuing to discharge the weapon multiple times. Kirkpatrick fled the scene in a pickup truck and drove eastbound on Highway 20 toward Bend.
Deputies initiated a pursuit and successfully used a Pursuit Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuver near Plainview Road, located between Sisters and Bend. Kirkpatrick was taken into custody without further incident.
The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries, including cuts, bruising, and swelling to the face, as well as additional bruising and swelling to other areas of the body from projectile impacts. He was transported to St. Charles–Bend for evaluation.
While the weapon used did not fire traditional bullets, investigators emphasized that the Saber pistol is capable of causing serious injury, particularly at close range or when aimed at vulnerable areas such as the face. Detectives said the suspect’s actions demonstrated an intent to cause serious harm or death.
No other individuals were injured, and investigators believe the victim was the sole intended target. The investigation remains ongoing.
