FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: August 13, 2025

CONTACT: Salem Police Communications Office | spdmedia@cityofsalem.net

Salem, Ore. — Frank Donovan Eckel of Salem was arrested yesterday, August 12, by Salem Police detectives for his involvement in a violent robbery that occurred last week outside Wallace Marine Park.

In the early morning hours of August 3, a victim reported being approached by a man who then assaulted and threatened them with a knife. The suspect, identified as the 28-year-old Eckel, then fled the scene with the victim’s backpack containing personal property.

The victim was transported to Salem Health with various physical injuries.

On Tuesday afternoon, Violent Crimes Unit detectives served a search warrant at a residence in the 1500 block of Brush College RD NW, apprehending him without incident.

Eckel was lodged at the Polk County Jail on the following charges:

• Robbery, first-degree
• Assault, second-degree
• Unlawful use of a weapon

With the suspect in custody, all inquiries about this case should be directed to the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.

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