Oregon Marine Will Not Be Charged In Wife’s Death

Four months ago, a decorated Marine Sergeant unintentionally shot his young wife in what can only be described as a stupid, but tragic accident. She later died at the hospital. Authorities just announced he would not be charged.

24-year-old Ryan Michael Osbrink, who received the Bronze Star for combat action in Iraq, was practicing drawing his personal .45 Caliber Pistol as his 23 year-old wife, Kimberly, entered the room. The pistol went off and she was hit in the abdomen. Ryan immediately dialed 911 and as help arrived, he was trying desperately to revive his wife. Rushed by ambulance to Oregon Health & Sciences University Hospital, she could not be revived and died. She came to just long enough to let them know it was accidental. Ryan was scheduled to begin working with the Clark County Washington Sheriffs Department within days, but withdrew his application. He voluntarily turned in his weapon, asking to never see it again. After a four-month investigation into the tragedy, Washington County Oregon officials announced there was no evidence it was an intentional shooting and said they will not be filing any criminal charges. Roger M. Hanlon, Washington County chief deputy district attorney, in a letter evaluating whether or not to charge Osbrink with criminally negligent homicide or manslaughter said,

“In this case, the decision is clear that the community as a whole would receive no benefit in a criminal prosecution.”

Kimberly’s parents agree with the decision, remaining close to Ryan and trying to help him get his life back together. Ryan remains on Active Reserve status, subjecting him to a return call to serve in Iraq. Sadly, this writer feels like such a recall would be suicidal for Sergeant Osbrink and I hope the Marines would take that into consideration.