Multiple Coburg Road Robbery Attempts, Suspect Arrested Near Oakway

Eugene police detained and arrested a 36 year old man after a string of incidents on the south Eugene commercial corridor on December 30. Officers first responded at 5:04 p.m. to a reported robbery at Key Bank, 1380 Coburg Road, where a suspect passed a note and fled the scene. Authorities identified the same person in a subsequent attempted robbery report at Papa Murphy's located at 1508 Coburg Road.

While patrol officers, EPD K9 and drone units searched the area, Skeie's Jewelers at 10 Oakway Road reported a disorderly man attempting to break a display case before fleeing on foot. The description matched the earlier reports, prompting a coordinated response from the Property Crimes Unit, on duty Street Crimes Unit officers, the Forensic Evidence Unit and a community service officer.

After a lengthy search a detective located the suspect near the 1500 block of Coburg Road. Officers safely detained the man and transported him to Lane County Jail. He was identified as Justin James Peterson, age 36, and was booked on charges including Theft in the First Degree, Disorderly Conduct, and Attempted Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree under case number 25 20990.

The episode underscores the immediate impact of such incidents on local businesses and customers. Key Bank and Papa Murphy's are on a stretch of Coburg Road that sees steady daytime foot and vehicle traffic. Small retailers and service workers often bear the brunt of robberies and attempts, facing both the financial costs of theft and the emotional toll of feeling unsafe at work. Jewelry stores and banks in particular can be targets because of visible valuables and cash handling, and a string of incidents in one evening amplifies anxiety among employees and patrons.

Public health implications extend beyond crime statistics. Events like these can increase community stress and trauma, particularly for frontline workers who may lack employer supported mental health resources. The response also highlights systemic questions about how law enforcement, forensic services and community outreach coordinate in real time, and whether investments in crisis intervention, mental health services and preventive social supports could reduce recurrence.

Eugene Police said multiple units assisted at the scenes including forensic and community service personnel, reflecting a multipronged approach to evidence gathering and scene management. As the case moves through the justice system, local policymakers and service providers may need to assess supports for affected businesses and workers, and revisit strategies that center prevention and equity alongside public safety.