Oregon has experienced a tragic series of fatal vehicle crashes within a single week, underscoring the dangers of the road as winter weather begins to impact driving conditions, especially in Southern Oregon. These incidents, reported by the Oregon State Police (OSP), resulted in multiple lives lost and serve as a stark reminder for drivers to remain vigilant.
Thursday, November 7th, a single-vehicle crash claimed the life of Devin Orion Rasmussen, 26, on Highway 86 near Richland. OSP’s investigation found Rasmussen’s Toyota Corolla failed to negotiate a corner, overturned, and landed in the Powder River.
The same day, a collision on Highway 20 near Bend killed Stephen Paul Tranhaile, 67, of Redmond. Riding a motorcycle, Tranhaile attempted to merge but was struck head-on by a Ford F-150.
Friday, November 8th, on Highway 101 near Hauser, William Kent Scoville, 49, was fatally struck while removing items from the roadway. A Toyota Rav4 hit him, though the driver and passenger were unharmed.
Saturday, November 9th, a crash on Highway 18 in Yamhill County took the life of Giovanni Zamora, 22, when his car overcorrected and collided with another vehicle.
Later that evening, a crash on Highway 95 in Malheur County killed Nicholas James Alexander, 46. Both Alexander and a passenger, who suffered severe injuries, were ejected as their vehicle rolled.
Sunday, November 10th, the day began with a hit-and-run on Highway 101 in Brookings, killing James Lorin Tavel, 39. Authorities later arrested the driver responsible.
Near Barton, Martin V. Crumpton, 64, died after his car veered off Highway 224 and hit a tree. Later, in Central Point, Brian R. Foreman, 76, was killed in a collision on Highway 99.
On Tuesday, November 12th a fiery crash in Eugene resulted in the death of Jeffery Alan Milchak, 40, after his vehicle left the Northwest Expressway and struck a tree.
With snow, wind, and icy conditions becoming prevalent, especially in Southern Oregon, drivers are urged to adapt to the shifting weather. Authorities recommend slowing down, maintaining safe distances, and remaining alert. These tragic incidents emphasize the critical importance of road safety during the winter months.
