In the early morning hours of September 7, 2025, a sense of disquiet settled over Ashland's Railroad District as police responded to an emergency call. Near the intersection of 'A' and North Second Streets, they discovered the body of 40-year-old Matthew Mark Vandersande, a male resident of Ashland. He was found on the ground next to his vehicle, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
Paramedics who arrived at the scene confirmed he was deceased, and a homicide investigation was promptly initiated.
Investigators determined that Vandersande was inside his parked vehicle when an unidentified individual approached and fired numerous rounds, striking him several times. The shooting is believed to have occurred between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. Security cameras from nearby businesses captured footage of the suspect, dressed in dark clothing, fleeing the scene on foot towards Pioneer Street immediately after the shooting. Law enforcement officials have stated that they do not believe the killing was a random act, but rather a targeted attack on Vandersande. They have assured the public that there is no indication of a broader threat to the community.
As of now, the shooter remains at large, and no arrests have been made in connection with the homicide. However, the Ashland Police Department, assisted by the Jackson County Major Assault/Death Investigation Unit, has been actively working the case. This multi-agency effort involves personnel from the Medford Police Department, Oregon State Police, and the Jackson County District Attorney's and Medical Examiner's Offices. Investigators have interviewed witnesses, executed several search warrants, and collected items of evidentiary value. While no suspect has been officially named, authorities have identified multiple persons of interest and are following up on leads. Police have urged residents in the area to review any surveillance footage they may have from the time of the incident.
