PORTLAND, OR – A Portland man was handed a 34-year prison sentence Wednesday after a series of violent crimes that began with a fatal shooting triggered by an unusual disagreement over a sandwich.
Jacob Fitzgerald, 24, pled guilty to charges including first-degree manslaughter, attempted murder, assault, armed burglary, and robbery. The legal process concluded with the sentence delivered by the Multnomah County Circuit Court.
The initial incident occurred on August 6, 2022, when tensions erupted after an argument with 53-year-old Otis Abner while Fitzgerald was driving near Delta Park. After being asked to exit the vehicle, Abner threw a sandwich that hit Fitzgerald’s car. In response, Fitzgerald shot at Abner, fatally wounding him. Prosecutors detailed Fitzgerald’s subsequent actions, including torching the getaway vehicle, in court proceedings.
Law enforcement officers discovered Abner’s body, aided by witnesses who reported the incident. Investigators gathered evidence, including seven shell casings, and analyzed surveillance footage from the area.
The saga took a further turn nearly 18 months later, on February 11, 2024, when Fitzgerald targeted his ex-girlfriend, who had witnessed the initial crime. He fired at her residence, injuring her in the face and arm. Fortunately, she survived the attack.
Jacob Fitzgerald was accompanied by his sister, Joanna Fitzgerald, during the assault on his ex-girlfriend. Joanna now faces related charges. Prior to his arrest on March 19, 2024, Jacob Fitzgerald’s criminal endeavors ended with an armed robbery, authorities revealed.
“This lengthy sentence is significant given the plea deal and reflects the severity and relentless nature of Fitzgerald’s actions,” commented Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Andrew MacMillan, stressing the threat Fitzgerald posed to the community.
As the community grapples with the trail of violence left by Fitzgerald, those close to Otis Abner face the challenge of mourning a grandfather of six, whose life ended over an ostensibly trivial dispute.