School employee fired for shooting deer during break sparks outrage

In November 2023, Paul Simmons, a 55-year-old former employee of the Clatskanie School District in Oregon, was involved in a controversial hunting incident. He shot and killed a deer while allegedly trespassing on private property during what he claimed was a break from work. Simmons later filed a lawsuit in the Columbia County Circuit Court, stating that he did not know he was trespassing. However, investigations by the Oregon State Police revealed that Simmons had in fact committed several misdemeanors, including unlawful hunting and official misconduct. In response to the charges, he received a plea deal that included probation, restitution, and a suspension of his hunting license. Initially working for the district for nearly three decades, Simmons had progressed from a mechanic to a transportation and custodial supervisor. This supervisory role was critical as it required him to be available for emergencies and to manage bus routes in challenging conditions. On the day of the incident, Simmons had already confided in his supervisor, Clatskanie Superintendent Danielle Hudson, about his father's terminal cancer, indicating he was under considerable personal stress and had a significant number of unused leave hours. The situation escalated when Simmons left work without obtaining permission, which the school district viewed as a serious violation. Simultaneously, Simmons argued that he had gone home to handle personal matters rather than officially requesting time off, claiming it was common practice among employees. After the shooting, he packed the deer into his work vehicle, but upon returning home, he was confronted by law enforcement, who seized the deer as well as his rifle. This incident not only led to Simmons' termination but also raised questions about the protocols and communication within the school district, particularly regarding employee leave and the management of personal emergencies. With Simmons now reportedly working at a local car dealership, the case highlights broader discussions about employee rights, responsibilities, and the repercussions of personal actions conducted during work hours.