Overview
A series of escalating confrontations between Freddy Nelson and Cornerstone Security Group security guards at the Delta Park Lowe's in Portland, Oregon culminated in the fatal shooting of Nelson by security guard Logan Gimbel in May 2021. Disputes regarding permissions, trespassing, and security protocols led to conflicting accounts and subsequent legal actions.
Background of Events
- Freddy Nelson regularly collected wooden pallets from behind Lowe's for his business, claiming verbal permission from Lowe's staff.
- Cornerstone Security Group was contracted to patrol the parking lot areas, not inside Lowe's.
- Security guards had multiple confrontations with Nelson, warning and trespassing him from the property on several occasions.
- Discrepancies existed between Lowe's management, property management (TMT), and security regarding Nelson's authorization.
Key Incidents Leading to Shooting
- Security accused Nelson of repeated trespassing and alleged theft, issuing formal and informal trespass directives.
- Nelson, supported by Lowe's receiving manager, maintained he had store permission but lacked written documentation.
- Tensions escalated over several months, with both parties feeling harassed or threatened.
The Shooting on May 29, 2021
- Nelson and his wife were approached by security almost immediately after parking.
- Security guard Logan Gimbel declared Nelson under arrest for trespassing; confrontation quickly escalated.
- After a heated exchange and an alleged attempt by Nelson to move his vehicle, Gimbel fired four shots, killing Nelson.
- Gimbel claimed self-defense, stating Nelson tried to hit him with the vehicle and used pepper spray; bodycam evidence was later scrutinized for sequence of events.
Aftermath and Investigation
- Police and paramedics responded; Gimbel was taken into custody, and investigations revealed he was not certified to carry a firearm.
- Lowe's manager confirmed Nelson had informal permission to collect pallets, while property management denied formal vendor approval.
- Contradictory testimonies arose from security, witnesses, Lowe's staff, and Nelson's widow.
Legal Proceedings and Outcomes
- Gimbel was charged several months later with second-degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon, and misuse of mace.
- At trial, Gimbel argued self-defense but was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment with parole eligibility after 25 years.
- Carrie Nelson filed a $25 million civil lawsuit for wrongful death and negligence against the property owners and Cornerstone Security Group; litigation remains unresolved.
Decisions
- Security guards decided to ban/trespass Freddy Nelson from Delta Park property.
- Logan Gimbel chose to use deadly force during the altercation with Nelson.
Action Items
- TBD – Ongoing Civil Suit (Carrie Nelson/Lawyers): Continue legal proceedings for wrongful death and negligence.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Was there ever a formal, documented trespass notice provided to Nelson?
- How will the ongoing civil case resolve regarding liability and damages?
- Will property management or Lowe’s revise protocols for vendor permissions and communication with security?