Salem DoorDash stabbing suspect Daniel Ray Myers arrested in California after 2-day manhunt
Daniel Ray Myers is accused of stabbing a woman multiple times late Feb. 10 after she resisted an alleged sexual assault, according to the Salem Police Department. Image Source: Salem Police Department
A two-day manhunt for a Salem DoorDash driver accused of attempted murder and sexual assault has ended with an arrest in California. Authorities confirmed that Daniel Ray Myers, 62, was taken into custody near Bakersfield after allegedly stabbing a co-worker multiple times during a delivery in Salem, Oregon.
The arrest marks a major development in a case that has raised concerns about gig worker safety and repeat violent offenders in Oregon.
How the Salem DoorDash Attack Happened
According to the Salem Police Department, the attack occurred late on February 10 in west Salem while Myers and the victim were making deliveries together for DoorDash.
Investigators say Myers allegedly drove the victim to a secluded location and made unwanted advances. When she resisted, police allege he attempted to sexually assault her and then stabbed her multiple times.
Authorities say the victim was temporarily trapped inside Myers’ vehicle. She later convinced him to allow her to seek first aid supplies at a Walgreens in Keizer. Store employees called 911 around 9 p.m., and emergency responders transported her to a hospital.
Police confirmed her injuries were non-life-threatening, and she has since been released.
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Manhunt Leads to Arrest in Bakersfield, California
Following the attack, Myers fled Oregon, prompting a multi-agency search effort. The California Highway Patrol arrested Myers around 8 p.m. in the Buttonwillow area near Bakersfield.
Authorities said detectives received multiple tips after distributing a bulletin to law enforcement agencies in Oregon and California. Surveillance reports indicated Myers’ vehicle had been seen traveling south toward Bakersfield.
Police say Myers was arrested without incident and booked into the Lerdo Justice Facility in California without bail. He is expected to be extradited back to Oregon to face charges.
Who Is Daniel Ray Myers?
Court records confirm that Myers previously served time in Oregon for murder and burglary beginning in 1984. He was originally sentenced to life in prison but was paroled on January 21, 2025.
The revelation of his criminal history has intensified scrutiny surrounding parole decisions and public safety concerns.
Charges and Extradition Process
Authorities have identified the charges as:
- Attempted murder
- Sexual assault
- Assault
Salem police confirmed that Myers will be extradited to Oregon at a later date. Prosecutors are expected to formally present charges once he is returned.
Officials emphasized that the investigation remains active and additional details may emerge.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
The case has sparked public debate about gig worker safety and the screening processes used by delivery platforms. While DoorDash has not yet issued a public statement in the latest updates, the case has reignited conversations about safety protocols for delivery drivers working in pairs.
Law enforcement officials have encouraged anyone with additional information to contact investigators.
FAQ
Who is the suspect in the Salem DoorDash stabbing?
The suspect is Daniel Ray Myers, 62, a Salem DoorDash driver accused of attempted murder and sexual assault.
Where was Daniel Ray Myers arrested?
He was arrested near Bakersfield, California, in the Buttonwillow area by the California Highway Patrol.
What happened during the Salem DoorDash attack?
Police say Myers attempted to sexually assault his co-worker during deliveries and stabbed her multiple times when she resisted.
Is the victim alive?
Yes. Authorities confirmed her injuries were non-life-threatening, and she has been released from the hospital.
Did Daniel Ray Myers have a prior criminal record?
Yes. Myers previously served time in Oregon for murder and burglary starting in 1984. He was paroled in January 2025.
What charges is Myers facing?
He is facing charges including attempted murder, sexual assault, and assault.
Will Myers be returned to Oregon?
Yes. He is expected to be extradited to Oregon to face prosecution.
How long was the manhunt?
The search lasted approximately two days before his arrest in California.