On Sunday, September 17, 2023, at approximately 5:40 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle (motorcycle) crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 80, in Josephine County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Caseton Paul Burruss (50) of Eugene, was northbound in the slow lane when it left the roadway and overturned. The operator was thrown from the motorcycle during the crash.
The operator (Burruss) was declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Azalea Fire, Glendale Fire, and ODOT.
On Saturday, September 16, 2023, at approximately 11:54 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 260, in Union County.
The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Volvo commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Victor Lee Jones (62) of St. George (UT), left the roadway, went through an ODOT fence, and struck a tree. The impact caused the Volvo to catch fire and become fully engulfed. The fire spread to a barn and the local fire departments responded to extinguish the fire.
The operator of the Volvo (Jones) was declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
OSP was assisted by La Grande Fire Department, Island city rural fire department, and ODOT.
HVEU_logo.jpg
Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Interstate-5 Saturation (Photo) – 09/15/23
OREGON STATE POLICE
HIGH VISIBILITY ENFORECEMENT UNIT (HVEU)
Media Release
Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Interstate-5 Saturation
9/15/23
The Oregon State Police will be enhancing our patrol efforts on Interstate 5 from Eugene to Portland, and state highways/public roadways intersecting Corvallis and Eugene on Saturday, September 16. Oregon State University and University of Oregon, both have home football games, which will draw a significant number of motorists to the area and the increased traffic volume comes with an increased risk of traffic collisions. The Oregon State Police will be seeking the public’s assistance in ensuring safe highways for those who are traveling to and from these events, as well as those traveling through the area on other adventures.
Oregon State Police presence will be focused on reducing violations of the Fatal Five categories- Speed, Occupant Safety, Lane Usage, Impaired Driving, and Distracted Driving (SOLID). These violations are statistically proven to contribute to serious injury and fatal crashes. We encourage motorists to plan ahead, in order to avoid the need to rely on excessive speed, use their mobile devices, or operate their vehicles while impaired, in order to get to and from their destinations.
Any media inquiries related to the focused patrol efforts this weekend can be submitted to OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov
On Thursday, September 14, 2023, at approximately 6:41 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single-motorcycle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 134, in Gilliam County.
The preliminary Investigation indicated a Honda Goldwing, operated by Scott Bastin (60) of Simi Valley (CA), was westbound when he traveled out of the lane of travel and onto the inside gravel median for unknown reasons. The Honda continued several hundred feet down the median and struck the cable divider.
The operator (Bastin) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3 hours during the on scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office, North Gilliam County Fire and EMS, and ODOT.
Oregon State Police – Officer-Involved Shooting – Lane County
On Thursday, September 14, at approximately 9:10 A.M., Oregon State Police was notified of an attempt to locate on a stolen vehicle. Troopers located the vehicle in the city of Coburg and attempted to stop the vehicle, and the vehicle fled. A short time later, the vehicle was located at an apartment complex, located at 599 Coburg Rd., by Coburg Police, Lane County Sheriff’s Deputies and Troopers. During the course of the incident, at least one law enforcement officer discharged their duty weapon.
The operator of the stolen vehicle was transported from the scene by ambulance, but later confirmed to be deceased.
At least one officer on scene received non-life-threatening injuries during the incident.
All involved officers have been placed on traumatic event leave as is standard protocol in deadly force incidents.
The Lane County Interagency Deadly Force Investigation Team responded and is investigating the incident. This team is comprised of investigators from numerous agencies and overseen by the Lane County District Attorney’s Office.
Per the standard protocols, all future media releases related to this incident will come from the Lane County District Attorney’s Office.
HVEU_logo.jpg
Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Mt. Angel (Photo) – 09/14/23
OREGON STATE POLICE
HIGH VISIBILITY ENFORECEMENT UNIT (HVEU)
Media Release
Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Mt. Angel
9/14/23
The Oregon State Police will be enhancing our patrol efforts in Mt. Angel and surrounding highways starting on Thursday, September 14, through Sunday, September 17. Oktoberfest will draw a significant number of motorists to the area and the increased traffic volume comes with an increased risk of traffic collisions. The Oregon State Police will be seeking the public’s assistance in ensuring safe highways for those who are traveling to and from this event, as well as those traveling through the area on other adventures.
Oregon State Police presence will be focused on reducing violations of the Fatal Five categories- Speed, Occupant Safety, Lane Usage, Impaired Driving, and Distracted Driving (SOLID). These violations are statistically proven to contribute to serious injury and fatal crashes. We encourage motorists to plan ahead, in order to avoid the need to rely on excessive speed, use their mobile devices, or operate their vehicles while impaired, in order to get to and from their destinations.
Any media inquiries related to the focused patrol efforts this weekend can be submitted to OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov
OSP_Star.jpg
Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Pendleton (Photo) – 09/14/23
OREGON STATE POLICE
HIGH VISIBILITY ENFORECEMENT UNIT (HVEU)
Media Release
Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Pendleton
9/14/23
The Oregon State Police will be enhancing our patrol efforts in the Pendleton area starting on Thursday, September 14, through Sunday, September 17. Troopers will be on foot, bike, and in vehicles. The Pendleton Round-Up will draw a significant number of motorists to the area and the increased traffic volume comes with an increased risk of traffic collisions. The Oregon State Police will be seeking the public’s assistance in ensuring safe highways for those who are traveling to and from this event, as well as those traveling through the area on other adventures.
Oregon State Police presence will be focused on reducing violations of the Fatal Five categories- Speed, Occupant Safety, Lane Usage, Impaired Driving, and Distracted Driving (SOLID). These violations are statistically proven to contribute to serious injury and fatal crashes. We encourage motorists to plan ahead, in order to avoid the need to rely on excessive speed, use their mobile devices, or operate their vehicles while impaired, in order to get to and from their destinations.
Any media inquiries related to the focused patrol efforts this weekend can be submitted to OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov
Picture1.jpg
OSP asking for public assistance – Columbia County (Photo) – 09/13/23
The Oregon State Police Fish & Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help to identify a person of interest related to a Roosevelt Bull Elk that was unlawfully shot and left to waste on September 13, 2023. This incident occurred between 12:00 A.M. and 4:00 A.M., near Taylor Lane and Battle Creek, on Highway 47, near Mist Oregon. A small, dark colored, loud passenger vehicle was seen fleeing the area northbound on Highway 47.
Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact OSP Senior Trooper Morgan through the Turn in Poachers (TIP) hotline at 1-800-452-7888, or OSP (*677), or his cell phone at 503-396-2408. Please reference case number SP23-293064
** Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators**
The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.
Preference Point Rewards:
* 5 Points-Mountain Sheep
* 5 Points-Mountain Goat
* 5 Points-Moose
* 5 Points-Wolf
* 4 Points-Elk
* 4 Points-Deer
* 4 Points-Antelope
* 4 Points-Bear
* 4 Points-Cougar
The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of Mountain Sheep, Mountain Goat, Moose, Elk, Deer, Antelope, Bear, Cougar, Wolf, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, and Furbearers. Cash rewards can also be awarded for the unlawful take of Game Fish and Shellfish and for Habitat Destruction.
CASH REWARDS:
* $5,000 Mountain Sheep, Mountain Goat and Moose
* $2,000 Elk, Deer and Antelope
* $300 Bear, Cougar and Wolf
* $500 Habitat Destruction
* $500 Upland/Migratory Game Birds
* $500 Game/Marine Fish and Shellfish
* $500 Furbearers
* $500 Spotlighting
* $500 Snagging/Attempt to Snag
* $500 Illegally Obtaining Hunting or Angling License or Tags
* $500 Unlawful Lending/Borrowing Big Game Tag(s)
How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:
TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or *OSP (677)
TIP E-Mail: TIP@state.or.us (Monitored M-F 8:00AM – 5:00PM)
On Friday, September 8, 2023, at approximately 5:04 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a multi-vehicle crash on Hwy-11, near Hwy-332, in Umatilla County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Chevrolet Spark, operated by Prithvi Singh (30) of Milton-Freewater, exited the parking lot of a convenience store and turned northbound into the continuous left turn lane. The Chevrolet continued and entered into the northbound lane, where it was struck from behind by an Acura MDX, operated by Vicki Pearce (62) of Walla Walla (WA). The Chevy Spark traveled uncontrolled into the southbound lanes, where it struck a Jeep Grand Cherokee, operated by Mary Cowling (38) of Milton-Freewater.
The operator (Singh) of the Chevy Spark was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Acura (Pearce) suffered minor injuries.
The operator (Cowling) and passenger, Troy Hahn (38) of Milton-Freewater, of the Jeep Grand Cherokee were transported to St. Mary’s hospital in Walla Walla, WA by private vehicle with minor injuries.
The highway was impacted for approximately 5.5 hours during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office, Milton-Freewater Police Department, Milton-Freewater Fire Department, and ODOT.
IMG_0106.jpeg
OSP asking for public assistance- Hood River County (Photo) – 09/08/23
The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help in locating the individual or individuals responsible for the poaching of a buck deer in the Hood management unit, location is south of Hood River, Oregon.
****Warning- Graphic Photo****
It is believed the buck was shot with a high powered pellet gun rifle sometime between 6:00pm, Thursday August 24th and 6:30am, Friday August 25th. The deer was located near 5940 Billings Rd just of Dee Hwy. No part of the deer was removed.
OSP Fish & Wildlife Division is urging anyone with information about this case to call the Oregon State Police Tip-line at 1-800-452-7888, *OSP (*677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference case number SP23-274719
** Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators**
The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.
Preference Point Rewards:
*5 Points-Mountain Sheep
*5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat
*5 Points-Moose
*5 Points-Wolf
*4 Points-Elk
*4 Points-Deer
*4 Points-Antelope
*4 Points-Bear
*4 Points-Cougar
The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of Mountain Sheep, Mountain Goat, Moose, Elk, Deer, Antelope, Bear, Cougar, Wolf, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, and Furbearers. Cash rewards can also be awarded for the unlawful take of Game Fish and Shellfish and for Habitat Destruction.
CASH REWARDS:
Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) Cash Rewards:
$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat & Moose
$1,000 Elk, Deer & Antelope
$600 Bear, Cougar & Wolf
$300 Habitat Destruction
$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags
$200 Unlawful Lending/Borrowing Big Game Tag(s)
$200 Game Fish & Shellfish
$200 Game Birds or Furbearers
$200 Spotlighting
$200 Snagging/Attempt to Snag
Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:
Birds
$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey
All other protected avian species: see category below for listed species
Mammals
$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox
Species listed as “threatened” or “endangered” under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$1,000 (e.g. wolf, wolverine, kit fox, red tree vole, Canada lynx, sea otter, Columbian white-tailed deer, California brown pelican, western snowy plover, California least tern, northern spotted owl, marbled murrelet, short-tailed albatross, streaked horned lark, yellow-billed cuckoo, leatherback sea turtle, olive ridley sea turtle, Oregon spotted frog, green sea turtle, loggerhead sea turtle)
How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:
TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or *OSP(677)
TIP E-Mail: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (Monitored M-F 8:00AM – 5:00PM)
20230829_154858.jpg
OSP asking for public assistance- Baker County (Photo) – 09/08/23
The Oregon State Police Fish & Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help to identify the person(s) responsible for the unlawful take and waste of a mule deer doe in Baker County, OR.
****Warning- Graphic photo attached****
On August 29, 2023 F&W Troopers responded to a mule deer doe that had been shot and left to waste on Hwy 245 at the Junction of Stices Gulch RD. This location is within the Sumpter Wildlife Management Unit, approximately ten miles south of Baker City.
Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact OSP Sgt. Cyr through the Turn in Poachers (TIP) hotline at 1-800-452-7888 or dial *OSP (mobile).
** Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators**
The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.
Preference Point Rewards:
*5 Points-Mountain Sheep
*5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat
*5 Points-Moose
*5 Points-Wolf
*4 Points-Elk
*4 Points-Deer
*4 Points-Antelope
*4 Points-Bear
*4 Points-Cougar
The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of Mountain Sheep, Mountain Goat, Moose, Elk, Deer, Antelope, Bear, Cougar, Wolf, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, and Furbearers. Cash rewards can also be awarded for the unlawful take of Game Fish and Shellfish and for Habitat Destruction.
CASH REWARDS:
Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) Cash Rewards:
$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat & Moose
$1,000 Elk, Deer & Antelope
$600 Bear, Cougar & Wolf
$300 Habitat Destruction
$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags
$200 Unlawful Lending/Borrowing Big Game Tag(s)
$200 Game Fish & Shellfish
$200 Game Birds or Furbearers
$200 Spotlighting
$200 Snagging/Attempt to Snag
Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:
Birds
$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey
All other protected avian species: see category below for listed species
Mammals
$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox
Species listed as “threatened” or “endangered” under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$1,000 (e.g. wolf, wolverine, kit fox, red tree vole, Canada lynx, sea otter, Columbian white-tailed deer, California brown pelican, western snowy plover, California least tern, northern spotted owl, marbled murrelet, short-tailed albatross, streaked horned lark, yellow-billed cuckoo, leatherback sea turtle, olive ridley sea turtle, Oregon spotted frog, green sea turtle, loggerhead sea turtle)
How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:
TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or *OSP(677)
TIP E-Mail: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (Monitored M-F 8:00AM – 5:00PM)
On Thursday, September 7, 2023, at approximately 2:15 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle crash on Hwy-101, near milepost 155, in Lincoln County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Dodge Ram 1500, operated by James Semrau (62) of Eugene, was turning left onto Hwy-101 from N Bayview Rd. A Kawasaki EX motorcycle, operated by Alex Gomez (27) of Toledo, was northbound on Hwy-101 going through the intersection with Bayview Rd, when the Dodge crossed the northbound lane of travel. The Kawasaki struck the Dodge and caught fire as a result of the crash.
An Oregon State Trooper arrived on scene moments after the crash and extinguished the fire.
The operator of the Kawasaki (Gomez) was pronounced deceased by medical personnel on scene.
The operator of the Dodge (Semrau) was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3 hours during the on scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
OSP was assisted by Lincoln County Sheriff, Seal Rock Fire, Central Coast Fire, and ODOT.
On Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at approximately 11:20 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Hwy-62, near milepost 7, in Jackson County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Dodge Ram 1500, operated by Ronald Miller (63) of Eagle Point, was eastbound when it struck a pedestrian, Joshua Branca (48) of Manhattan Beach (CA), who entered the eastbound lane of travel.
The pedestrian (Branca) was pronounced deceased by medical personnel on scene.
The operator of the Dodge Ram 1500 (Miller) was not injured.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3 hours during the on scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
OSP was assisted by Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Eagle Point PD, Fire District 3, and ODOT.
Oregon State Police – Officer Involved Shooting- Tillamook County
On Thursday, September 7, 2023, at approximately 6:00 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a residence in Rockaway Beach to assist a Tillamook County Deputy, who was requesting assistance with an agitated suspect. The Trooper arrived on scene and during the course of the incident law enforcement officers discharged their duty weapons. The suspect was declared deceased at the scene.
At this time, the Oregon State Police has requested the Clatsop County Major Crimes team investigate the incident.
The Clatsop County Major Crimes Team or the Tillamook County District Attorney will provide any future press releases.
IMG_3704.JPG
OSP Drug Enforcement Serves Illegal Marijuana Search Warrant – Christmas Valley (PHOTOS) (Photo) – 09/07/23
OSP Drug Enforcement Serves Illegal Marijuana Search Warrant – Christmas Valley (PHOTOS)
On August 30, 2023, the Oregon State Police (OSP) Drug Enforcement Section (DES) Southwest Region Marijuana (SWRMJ) team executed a search warrant on an illegal marijuana growing operation in the 83000 block of Christmas Valley Hwy, Christmas Valley, Oregon.
One (1) male; Genaro Farfan Flores (32) of Fresno, California, was arrested and lodged at the Lake County Jail for Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana (ORS 475C.349). As a result of the operation, 1,591 illegal marijuana plants and approximately 50-lbs. of dried, processed marijuana was seized and ultimately destroyed. Additionally, two (2) firearms were located and seized.
Law enforcement also encountered piles of trash, chemicals, a two (2) story unpermitted structure, improvised well irrigation systems, and hazardous electrical wiring on the property.
The OSP DES SWRMJ team was assisted by the OSP Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, the OSP Major Crimes Section (MCS), OSP Lakeview Patrol Office, OSP Klamath Falls Patrol Office, the Basin Illegal Narcotics Enforcement Team (BINET), the Klamath County Sherriff’s Office, and the Lake County Sherriff’s Office.
This investigation is on-going, and no additional details are available at this time.
On Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at approximately 7:33 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two vehicle crash on Hwy-62, near milepost 7, in Jackson County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Yamaha motorcycle, operated by Jamie Davenport (38) of Shady Cove, was southbound and turning east on Avenue H when a Toyota Highlander, operated by Vickie Kuras (65) of Medford, was northbound traveling through a green light. The Yamaha made a left turn in front of the Toyota and the Toyota was unable to avoid the collision with the Yamaha.
The operator of the Yamaha (Davenport) was critically injured, transported to a local hospital, and was later pronounced deceased.
The operator of the Toyota (Kuras) was not injured.
The highway was impacted for approximately two hours during the on scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and ODOT.
On Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at approximately 5:02 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-20, near milepost 4, in Lincoln County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Suzuki Sidekick, operated by James Richard Lebo (70) of Wrangell (AK), was eastbound when it veered into the on-coming lane of travel and struck a westbound Toyota Tacoma, operated by Trevor Lee Hutchison (49) of Toledo, head-on.
The operator of the Suzuki (Lebo) was declared deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Toyota (Hutchison) was not injured.
The highway was impacted for approximately 2.5 hours during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by the Toledo Police Department, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Toledo Fire, Newport Fire, and ODOT.
On Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at approximately 1:10 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-30, near milepost 36, in Columbia County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Ford E-250, operated by Beverly Ann Seymore (45) of Rainier, was traveling eastbound when it crossed the center line and struck a Nissan Frontier, operated by Michael Robert Pohl (59) of Rainier, head-on.
The operator of the Ford (Seymore) was airlifted to a local hospital for treatment.
The operator of the Nissan (Pohl) was declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
OSP was assisted by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Columbia Fire and Rescue, and ODOT.
Oregon State Police – Update – Christopher Lee Pray
On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at approximately 10:45 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to the Oregon State Hospital, located at 2600 Center St NE, Salem, for the report of a vehicle stolen by a patient of the hospital. The patient, later identified as Christopher Lee Pray, fled in a state owned Dodge Caravan in an unknown direction, according to the initial reports.
Troopers began attempting to locate the vehicle while on their way to the Oregon State Hospital, with the first Trooper arriving on scene at approximately 11:05 P.M. The Trooper began assessing the scene and reporting to mobile units. The Trooper at the scene indicated the suspect was wanted for the Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (UUMV) and Escape.
The initial investigation revealed Pray had arrived at the State Hospital on August 30, at approximately 8:15 A.M. Pray was involved in a physical altercation in the cafeteria and subsequently transported to a local medical center for treatment of his injuries. Upon returning from the medical center, Pray was able to take control of the vehicle he was being transported in and flee from an unsecured area at the State Hospital.
At approximately 11:10 P.M., a Keizer Police unit located the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop. The vehicle, with Pray operating it, fled onto Interstate 5 southbound. The Keizer PD unit continued the pursuit southbound on Interstate 5 with OSP assisting, before transferring the pursuit to OSP. The known circumstances of the incident did not meet the pursuit policy of the Oregon State Police and the pursuit was terminated near the Santiam Rest Area.
OSP continued the investigation and learned the following morning, on Thursday, August 31, of Pray’s criminal history, OSH committal information, and his potential threat to the community. Investigators immediately began confirming the information and put out an alert to other agencies and a press release to alert the public.
On Friday, September 1, 2023, at approximately 8:17 A.M., Christopher Pray was located in a muddy pond, near the intersection of North Force Ave and North Victory Blvd, in Portland. Pray was rescued by Portland Fire and Rescue and transported to a Legacy Emmanuel Medical Center. Once at the hospital, medical personnel recognized Pray from the press release and reported his location to the Portland Police Bureau, who responded and took Pray into custody.
Pray is currently lodged in the Multnomah County Jail.
On Saturday, September 2, 2023, Portland Police Bureau located the stolen vehicle at the intersection of NE 19th Ave and NE Glisan St. The vehicle was recovered and towed from the scene.
This is an active criminal investigation and there is no further information available for release.
On Saturday, September 2, 2023, at approximately 8:52 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Hwy-228, near milepost 19, in Linn County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Subaru WRX, operated by Joshua C. Jefferson (39) of Sweet Home, was eastbound went it left the roadway and struck several trees. The operator (Jefferson) was ejected from the vehicle and declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was not impacted during the course of the investigation.
OSP was assisted by ODOT.
On Saturday, September 2, 2023, at approximately 3:10 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle crash on Hwy-230, near milepost 6, in Jackson County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Toyota Corolla, operated by Thomas B. Austen (70) of Auckland (New Zealand), crossed into the opposing lane of travel and struck a Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Richard L. Silverman (66) of Portland, head-on.
The operator of the Harley Davidson (Silverman) was declared deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Toyota (Thomas Austen) and passenger, Victoria M. Austen (68) of Auckland (New Zealand), both suffered minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The highway was impacted for approximately 7 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is being investigated.
OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Prospect Fire & Rescue, Mercy Flights, and ODOT.
On Thursday, August 31, 2023, at approximately 5:18 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a multi-vehicle crash on Hwy-101, near milepost 340, in Curry County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Subaru Outback, operated by Skyanna Marie Goodland (42) of Tillamook, was northbound on US-101 near mile post 340 when it crossed the centerline and sideswiped a southbound Chrysler Pacifica, operated by Heather Anne Serna (50) of Brookings, before striking a southbound Hyundai Veloster, operated by Brandon Michael Cunliffe Owen (34) of Brookings, head-on.
The operator of the Hyundai (Cunliffe Owen) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Subaru (Goodland) was extricated and transported to a local hospital by ambulance.
The operator of the Chrysler (Serna) was transported to the hospital by private party for minor injuries.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation at this time.
OSP was assisted by the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Gold Beach Police Department, Gold Beach Fire and Rescue, Pistol River Fire, and ODOT.
Recent Photo
Oregon State Police attempting to located dangerous escapee- Public assistance requested (Photo) – 09/01/23
UPDATE: Christopher Pray is in police custody- Portland, Oregon
On Friday, September 1, 2023 at 8:17 A.M., Portland Fire & Rescue and the Portland Police Bureau were dispatched to a report of a potentially deceased person, in a pond, at North Force Avenue and North Victory Boulevard, in Portland. When rescue crews arrived they began communicating with the patient and PF&R command notified PPB dispatch that police were not needed and canceled PPB response.
The patient was stuck in the mud, approximately 75 feet from firm ground, and was buried up to their armpits. The rescue required a rope and ladder in order to remove the patient. The rescue took approximately 1 hour to complete.
After rescue, the patient was transported to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center for an evaluation. The patient provided a fake name, however an observant hospital employee noticed he resembled Christopher Pray. Hospital staff notified the Portland Police Bureau, who responded and confirmed his identity. Pray was arrested and is in PPB custody.
We want to thank the vigilant medical personnel who recognized Pray and alerted the authorities.
OSP is currently investigating the details surrounding his escape and plan to provide an additional press release next Tuesday, September 5.
Oregon State Police – Salem, Oregon – Escaped Adult in Custody
On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at approximately 10:45 P.M., the Oregon State Police were notified of an escaped adult in custody and patient of the Oregon State Hospital, located in Salem.
Christopher Lee Pray was an adult in custody at the Multnomah County jail for multiple serious charges, to include Attempted Aggravated Murder, when he was transferred to the Oregon State Hospital on August 30. At approximately 10:45 P.M., Pray escaped from custody when he stole a white 2016 Dodge Caravan, bearing Oregon license plate E265614, and eluded law enforcement southbound on Interstate 5. Law enforcement terminated the pursuit due to safety concerns and Pray was not apprehended.
Prays whereabouts are unknown at this time. He was last seen heading southbound on Interstate 5, however he has ties to the greater Portland metro area. At the time of his escape, he was fully restrained with leg shackles, a belly chain, handcuffs, and a restraint connecting all three together. He was wearing a white t-shirt, maroon sweatpants, and black rubber slippers.
Pray is considered extremely dangerous and should not be approached. Law enforcement is urging the public to dial 911 and report any sightings of Pray or the vehicle he was operating.
Christopher Lee Pray- Poses an extreme danger to the public
- 39 years old
- 6 ft. tall, 170 pounds
- Brown hair and brown eyes
- White male
- Trimmed facial hair- may be different from photo
- Stitches on his upper lip
- Tattoos- Right arm- “PRAY”; right forearm – “S”; neck- possibly “supreme”
- Full restraints- leg shackles, belly chain, and handcuffs
- White t-shirt, maroon sweatpants, and black rubber slippers.
2016 white Dodge Caravan- (photo not actual vehicle)
- Oregon license plate- E265614 (yellow plate)
- No identifying marks
On Monday, August 28, 2023, at approximately 4:45 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-30, near milepost 59, in Columbia County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a gold Toyota Avalon, operated by Alexander Jovani Diaz Hernandez (22) of Longview (WA), was traveling westbound on Hwy-30 when, for unknown reasons, the Avalon crossed into the eastbound lanes and collided head-on with a blue Subaru Impreza, operated by David Reeves (21) of Clatskanie.
The operator of the Subaru (Reeves) was declared deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Toyota (Diaz Hernandez) sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
The highway was impacted for 6 hours during the on-scene investigation. The investigation into the cause of the crash is on-going.
OSP was assisted by the Clatskanie Fire Department, Columbia River Fire & Rescue, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and ODOT.
On Saturday, August 26, 2023, at approximately 3:17 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle crash on Hwy-38, at the intersection with Dean Creek Rd, in Douglas County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a white Honda CRV, operated by Nancy Jean Funk (79) of Reedsport, was stopped on Dean Creek Road, preparing to turn westbound onto Hwy-38. The Honda CRV began to turn onto Hwy-38 and pulled out in front of an eastbound Honda VTX1300, operated by Lynn Eugene Kropf (70) of Shedd. The Honda motorcycle attempted to stop and fell to its side. The passenger of the motorcycle, Marilyn Rae Kropf (67) of Shedd, came off of the motorcycle and impacted the rear of the Honda CRV.
The operator of the Honda CRV (Funk), passenger – Rachelle Dora Lopez (44) of Reedsport – and a juvenile passenger were not injured during the collision. The operator remained on scene and cooperated with investigators.
The operator of the Honda motorcycle (Lynn Eugene Kropf) suffered minor injuries and declined medical transport.
The passenger of the motorcycle (Marilyn Rae Kropf) was declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was impacted for approximately 1.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The investigation is on-going.
OSP was assisted by the Reedsport Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Department, and ODOT.
On Thursday, August 24, 2023, at approximately 1:16 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Hwy-101, near milepost 132, in Lincoln County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a tan Chevrolet Blazer was traveling southbound when it left the roadway for unknown reasons, rolled multiple times, and came to a rest on the roof.
The operator of the vehicle, Megan Becca Wigington (32) of Salem, was declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was impacted for approximately 1 hour during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Depoe Bay Fire, PacWest Ambulance, and ODOT.
Oregon State Police Investigating Officer Involved Shooting- Josephine County
Grants Pass, Ore. – On August 24, 2023, at 8:52 AM, Grants Pass Police Officers responded to the scene of a shooting near the M Street Market in the 1000 block of SE M Street. Officers located a victim, Robert Mills (63) of Grants Pass, who had sustained gunshot wounds. Officers quickly located the suspect, Dennis McGuire (69) of Grants Pass, who was armed with a firearm. The incident quickly escalated and culminated in an officer-involved shooting.
Both the Mills and McGuire were transported to the hospital with gunshot wounds and were last reported in serious but stable condition.
None of the responding officers were injured, and there is no further danger to the community from this incident. Names of involved officers are not being released at this time.
The Josephine County Major Crime Team was activated and the Oregon State Police are leading the investigation into the initial shooting as well as the officer-involved shooting. The completed investigation will be referred to the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office.
On Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at approximately 12:20 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-20, near milepost 237, in Malheur County.
The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Mercedes SUV, operated by Christina Cheryl Shane-Contarino (75) of Yreka (CA), was negotiating a curve when it crossed over the center line into the on-coming lane of travel. A westbound Peterbilt commercial motor vehicle, operated by Hijinio A Hernandez (34) of Ontario, attempted to avoid a collision with the Mercedes but was unable to do so. The vehicles collided head-on in the westbound lane, sending the Peterbilt into a nearby cornfield and the Mercedes onto the shoulder of the roadway.
The operator of the Mercedes (Shane-Contarino) was declared deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Peterbilt was reportedly uninjured.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is being investigated.
OSP was assisted by the Malheur County Sheriff’s Office, Vale Fire and Ambulance, and ODOT.
On Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at approximately 8:51 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-20, near milepost 19, in Linn County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Hyundai Elantra, operated by Joel William Applebaum (30) of Sweet Home, was traveling eastbound when it left its lane of travel and entered the westbound lane. The Hyundai struck a westbound yellow Mitsubishi Lancer, operated by Joy Lavonne Backus (70) of Sweet Home, head-on.
Both vehicle operators, Applebaum and Backus, were declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
OSP was assisted by Lebanon Fire, Sweet Home Fire, and ODOT.
The Oregon State Police is seeking public assistance regarding a criminal investigation- Washington County
The Oregon State Police Major Crimes Section in Portland is investigating Sergeant Levi Gray, with the Oregon Department of Corrections, who was recently indicted by a grand jury and arrested by the Oregon State Police for Custodial Sexual Misconduct in the First Degree and Official Misconduct in the First Degree.
If you were a witness, victim or have any information related to this investigation- please contact the lead investigator, Detective Joshua McNeely, by calling the Oregon State Police Dispatch Center at 503-731-3030 and reference OSP case number SP23-149722.
OSP does not have further information to release at this time.
Original Article: Source