Two Dealerships Targeted
SALEM, Ore. — Authorities say a Montana man has been arrested after damaging at least 70 vehicles at two Salem auto dealerships, causing an estimated $155,000 in damages.
The first incident occurred on September 11 at Mercedes & Acura of Salem on Commercial Street Southeast. Surveillance footage captured the suspect, identified as 32-year-old Brian Del Werner of Kalispell, Montana, vandalizing roughly 35 vehicles. The damage from that incident alone is estimated at $55,000.
Just three days later, on September 14, another 35 vehicles were targeted at BMW of Salem on Van Ness Avenue Northeast. That incident caused an additional $100,000 in damages, according to police. Along with vehicle damage, authorities reported property destruction at the dealership.
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Suspect in Custody
Werner was arrested on September 15 in Portland by local police after being stopped for suspected DUI. During the arrest, officers confirmed that Werner also had an active warrant out of Flathead County, Montana, where he is accused of a similar vandalism spree that involved gunfire.
Salem police confirmed Werner is facing multiple charges, including first-degree mischief for the Oregon incidents. He is being held in Multnomah County and will later face extradition to Montana to address the charges pending there.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities say at least 20 victims have been identified in the Salem cases so far, though the number may rise as additional reports are filed. Police are encouraging anyone whose vehicle was damaged but has not yet submitted a report to do so through the Salem Police Department’s online portal.
Victims are asked to include the following case numbers when filing:
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Mercedes/Acura of Salem: SMP25079703
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BMW of Salem: SMP25080551
Pattern of Vandalism
Police noted similarities between the Oregon cases and Werner’s alleged activity in Montana, where he remains a suspect in another high-value vandalism spree. Investigators are working with Montana authorities to determine whether the incidents are connected and to establish a timeline of Werner’s movements before his arrest.
The combination of extensive property damage, DUI charges, and outstanding warrants highlight what officials describe as a “multi-jurisdictional case” requiring coordination between Oregon and Montana law enforcement agencies.
Community and Business Impact
The vandalism has left dealership employees and customers frustrated. With dozens of vehicles damaged, both Salem businesses are dealing with costly repairs and potential delays in delivering vehicles to buyers.
Police stressed that while the financial losses are significant, no injuries were reported during either incident. Still, the scope of the damage has rattled the Salem business community, which is working with insurance providers to assess coverage and costs.
What Comes Next
Werner will remain in custody while facing charges in Oregon before extradition proceedings begin. The Salem Police Department said updates on the investigation and court process will be provided as more information becomes available.
For now, police urge any additional victims to submit reports to ensure accurate documentation of the damages as the case moves forward.
