Portland Police Identify Victims, 17 and 19, in Willamette River Crash Killing 3
Portland authorities are investigating a tragic incident that resulted in the deaths of three young individuals when their vehicle crashed into the Willamette River. The victims were aged 17, 19, and 20, with two of them identified by police as Roberto C. Garcia-Chavez, 19, and Trent Badillo, 17, both hailing from Beavercreek.
Crash Details
The accident occurred during the early hours of Monday morning. Around 2 a.m., an officer noticed a white 1996 Toyota Corolla speeding and driving against traffic in downtown Portland, disregarding red lights. Efforts to execute a traffic stop were unsuccessful as the vehicle fled.
Authorities reported that the car sped down Southwest Harvey Milk Street, merged onto Southwest Naito Parkway, and ultimately crashed through a barrier at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, plunging into the Willamette River.
Victims Identified
- Roberto C. Garcia-Chavez, 19 (driver)
- Trent Badillo, 17 (passenger)
- Unknown male, 20 (presumed dead)
Divers were deployed and successfully recovered the bodies of Garcia-Chavez and Badillo on the same day as the crash. The remains of the 20-year-old male, still missing, have not yet been located.
Survivor’s Account
The sole survivor of the crash, DJ Buckner, reported a harrowing experience. His mother, Melissa Buckner, revealed that DJ lost consciousness during the accident and later found himself submerged at the bottom of the river.
Investigation and Recovery
Portland police have indicated plans to recover the vehicle from the water. Investigators are still assessing the best approach to retrieve it, emphasizing that this process may take considerable time.
This incident highlights the dangers associated with reckless driving and the importance of adhering to traffic laws. The community grieves the loss of young lives as the investigation continues.
