[2][3] The event has been called "the most significant occurrence of violence"[4] in the Oregon Country between indigenous peoples and settlers prior to the Cayuse War.

The militia was initially led by Captain Thomas D. Keizur, who resigned shortly after its creation, with Charles H. Bennett taking command.

The band was probably on a seasonal berry gathering excursion, a traditional movement that "almost certainly dates back hundreds of years.

"[12] Rumors began to spread among the pioneer settlements accusing these Wascos of thefts, including livestock formerly owned by the Methodist Mission.

[10][8] An estimated forty Rangers rode about 14 miles to location occupied by the band, under the command of Robinson, near what became known as Battle Creek in Marion County, Oregon.

As there was no evidence to support the settlers' claims, the Rangers offered a horse and some blankets as reparations to the injured native.