Clackamas County, Ore. — A trial is set to begin for a man accused of fatally stabbing a mail carrier last year, following a full day of jury selection on Wednesday. The charges against Chad Westover include second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and unlawful use of a weapon in connection with the death of his neighbor, Tristan Thomas.
More than a year after the incident, family members of Thomas are eager for justice. “We will feel relieved once this trial concludes, and we hope for the outcome we desire to kickstart our healing process,” said Brandon Thomas, a cousin of the victim.
The fatal altercation took place on the evening of Sept. 21, 2024, when Tristan Thomas called 911 multiple times. During the initial call around 5:30 p.m., he reported being attacked by Westover over a parking disagreement. Although police documented his injuries, they determined there was insufficient evidence for an arrest.
Later that night, Thomas called for help again, claiming Westover confronted him alongside some neighbors, alleging that Thomas was stalking his teenage daughter. In the recorded call, Thomas warned the group he had a knife and heard Westover ask others to stop filming so he could handle the situation. Before the call ended abruptly, dispatchers heard Thomas cry out for assistance.
After police were called back, a woman identified as Samantha Christensen answered Thomas’s phone, asserting that everything was fine and that no help was needed. However, when authorities arrived, they found Thomas had suffered more than ten stab wounds to his face, neck, and shoulders. He was hospitalized for two weeks following the attack before succumbing to his injuries.
The family is hopeful that this trial, expected to last more than two weeks, will conclude with a guilty verdict. Brandon Thomas expressed his thoughts on the nature of Westover, saying, “Chad needs to spend the rest of his life in prison. He is a dangerous individual who should not be among society.”
Alongside Westover, Christensen is facing charges for evidence tampering related to the case, with her trial scheduled to begin in November. As the proceedings unfold, the community remains attentive, seeking closure in a case that has deeply affected many.