***UPDATE*** DEATH INVESTIGATION-ARREST MADE

Grants Pass Police Department

On 01-22-2022, at approximately 9:15 pm, the Grants Pass Police Department responded to Flespy's Bar and Grill for a report of a male subject laying on the sidewalk, unconscious with blood on him.  Officers arrived on scene within one minute from the time of call and located citizens attempting to provide emergency medical treatment to a male subject laying near the front of the building.  Emergency personnel from Grants Pass Fire Rescue and AMR also responded and provided medical treatment to the male. 

Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel, the male was pronounced deceased at the scene.  Detectives were notified and responded to assist with the investigation, as well as the Josephine County District Attorney and later the Oregon State Police Forensics unit.  Fruitdale Drive was closed for all traffic for approximately 4 hours while the scene was processed. 

After clearing from the crime scene, detectives continued working on leads and follow up on evidence throughout the night.  After conducting the additional investigation, a name was developed for a possible suspect.  Detectives were able to determine the arrestee, Paul Dayton, was involved in this incident and obtained a search warrant for his residence in the area of Wards Creek Road in Rogue River, Or. 

Due to the severity of the crime and an unknown threat to the public, Jackson County Sheriff's Office was contacted for assistance with serving the warrant for Dayton.  The Rogue River Police Department also assisted with looking for the suspect in this case and provided resources for our officers and detectives while conducting follow up in the Rogue River area.  One additional witness to the incident was located at the Lil' Pantry in Rogue River prior to the warrant being served.  Dayton was located at his residence and was taken into custody without incident by members of the Jackson County SWAT and Negotiations teams.  

Due to the diligence of the detective unit and assistance from our partnering agencies in Jackson County, Dayton was safely taken into custody approximately 16 hours after the initial reported incident. Without the assistance from the Josephine County District Attorney, Oregon State Police Forensics Unit, Jackson County Sheriff's Office and the cooperation of any witnesses to this case, we would not have been able to successfully close this case in a timely manner. 

Due to the fact that this is a major crime investigation, any requests for additional information will be directed to the Josephine County District Attorney's Office.  Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Det. Shaw with the Grants Pass Police Department at 541-450-6260.