On Christmas Day in Portland, Oregon, a fatal car accident took a harrowing turn as two separate drunk drivers crashed into the accident scene, posing additional threats to those involved, including a police officer. The incident, reported by television station KATU, unfolded on Southeast 122nd Avenue near Southeast Powell Boulevard.
The initial crash occurred just before 5:00 p.m., prompting a response from the Portland Police Bureau. The accident involved a vehicle crash, resulting in critical injuries to one driver who was later transported to a local hospital. Tragically, the critically injured individual succumbed to their injuries and passed away. In the aftermath of the collision, Southeast 122nd Avenue was cordoned off for several hours to facilitate the investigation, scene processing, and evidence collection.
The situation took a perilous turn when two separate drunk drivers entered the scene. According to reports, one of the vehicles involved in the subsequent crashes jumped a curb, narrowly avoiding a nearby coffee shop, and came to a stop in a strip mall parking lot. The reckless actions of the drunk drivers not only compounded the chaos at the accident site but also posed a direct threat to law enforcement officers present.
Mike Benner, spokesperson for the Portland Police Bureau, expressed astonishment at the recklessness of the drunk drivers, noting that a Deputy District Attorney (DA) was nearly struck by one of the vehicles. The incident underscored the inherent dangers faced by law enforcement and other personnel working at accident scenes.
“We also had a Deputy DA who was nearly hit by one of these drivers. It’s mind-boggling,” remarked Benner in an interview with KATU. The close call with the Deputy DA highlighted the potential for tragedy beyond the initial accident, raising concerns about the safety of those responding to emergencies on the road.
Witnesses at the scene recounted the chaotic and dangerous sequence of events. Bill Baired, a witness interviewed by KATU News, described hearing a loud bang while waiting at a traffic light. According to Baired, a vehicle, allegedly traveling at a high speed, collided with another car, resulting in significant damage. The witness recounted the severity of the impact, stating that the speeding vehicle “took her whole front end off.”
The incidents on Christmas Day underscore the critical need for public awareness regarding the dangers of driving under the influence. Drunk driving not only endangers the lives of those behind the wheel but also poses severe risks to innocent individuals, emergency responders, and law enforcement personnel at accident scenes.
As authorities continue their investigations into the fatal car accident and the subsequent crashes involving drunk drivers, the incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible and sober driving, especially during the holiday season when road traffic tends to increase. The impact of these events extends beyond the immediate victims, affecting communities and emphasizing the ongoing efforts needed to address issues related to impaired driving.