Scott E. Church dies in fatal Lincoln City shooting

Scott E. Church dies in fatal Lincoln City shooting

Fatal Lincoln City shooting death of Scott E. Church – Obituary

Scott E. Church, 52, lost his life after being shot in Lincoln City on the morning of May 19. Authorities say the suspect, 43-year-old transient Justin R. Schmeidel, admitted to knowing Church and claimed he was motivated by concerns over drug use in the area.

According to law enforcement, Church had been residing in the Taft neighborhood on Southwest 51st Street when Schmeidel allegedly pulled up in his vehicle, lowered the window, and fired twice. Church was transported to a hospital in Salem where he later succumbed to his injuries on Sunday.

Initially charged with assault and weapons violations, Schmeidel now faces upgraded charges including second-degree murder and first-degree manslaughter, following Church’s death. These charges were brought forth by a Lincoln County grand jury on Tuesday.

A police affidavit states that Schmeidel told Officer Joshua Lane he saw Church, believed he was influencing women negatively, and “popped him” using a revolver. Schmeidel claimed he was frustrated by the impact of methamphetamine on the community.

Church had a troubled past, with court records indicating he was homeless at times. Since 2022, he had been cited multiple times for failing to register as a sex offender and possessing methamphetamine. His latest charges from March 3 led to a brief jail stay before he was released on March 12. He was awaiting a June court date at the time of his death.

Lincoln City police are continuing their investigation and have requested that anyone with information reach out to Detective Bud Lane or Detective John Goodman at 541-994-3636.