Malheur Situation Continues to be Powder Keg after Death, Arrests

By David Codrea

USA –  -(Ammoland.com)-  “It has come to the attention of PPN that many individuals are responding to this news as a ‘Call to Action,’” the Pacific Patriots Network advised followers after the arrest of key Malheur Wildlife Refuge leaders and the shooting death of group spokesman LaVoy Finicum. “[PPN] is issuing an immediate ‘STAND BY’ Order to all those who are mobilizing to the peaceful city of Burns, Oregon.

“We will not pursue any action until all of the facts have been pieced together regarding the traffic stop and the arrest of Ammon Bundy,” the advisory explained. “During this time, cooler heads must prevail. We do not wish to inflame the current situation and will engage in open dialogue until all of the facts have been gathered.”

That’s sound thinking, especially since conflicting accounts of what happened have emerged. One purported eyewitness essentially claims Finicum was executed, while others who say they were present allege he was advancing on authorities. This is where dash-cam videos from the police cars present will be indispensable.

UPDATE: Overhead FBI Drone Footage Released

Regardless, there are deep divisions evident by comments under news accounts, some rejoicing in the law enforcement response and others decrying it as totally unnecessary and heavy-handed. And there is mounting anger which could flare and spread, something this column warned about when the story first broke. The last thing needed now is for loose cannons like the guy claiming to be a retired Green Beret colonel (who says his service record was sealed by Ronald Reagan) to show up, threatening to kill cops arresting him for DUI.

Forward Observer director Sam Culper’s SITREP of the situation on the ground at Malheur was posted on the Oath Keepers website. Of special note:

Blaine Cooper has reportedly assumed leadership at the Refuge and has been told to leave immediately. During a phone call with Pete Santilli, Pete can be overheard saying, “Blaine, please don’t do this.” Blaine is reportedly wanting to make a stand. Women and children are still at the Refuge.

Information since gleaned from other sources indicates the women and children have now removed themselves, leaving a handful of armed occupiers determined not to leave.

A press conference was held today by the FBI, posted on FlashAlert.net.

“Containment road blocks are now in place around the Refuge,” Greg Bretzing, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Portland, announced. “If the people at the refuge want to leave, they can do so through the checkpoints where they will be identified. If they have questions or concerns, they can call the negotiators at the number that has been provided to them.”

Now that “authorities” have drawn first blood under disputed circumstances — with no grievance issues resolved — it’s anyone’s guess what, when and where the next move will be, and importantly, by whom.

About David Codrea:

David Codrea is the winner of multiple journalist awards for investigating / defending the RKBA and a long-time gun rights advocate who defiantly challenges the folly of citizen disarmament.

He blogs at “The War on Guns: Notes from the Resistance,” and also posts on Twitter: @dcodrea and Facebook.