A tragic dawn in Downtown Portland claimed the life of a young man after a brutal car crash early Saturday morning. The deceased, now identified as Wael M. Zahran, a 23-year-old from Tigard, Oregon, was pronounced dead following the collision that has left the city grappling with its 9th traffic-related fatality this year, as reported by the Portland Police Bureau.
The incident occurred at Southwest Naito Parkway and Southwest Columbia Street, where Zahran was a rear passenger in a Toyota Camry hit by a Volkswagen Jetta, the driver of which is now facing grave charges. According to authorities, the suspect, 46-year-old Jacob M. Tabor of Washington County, Oregon, was previously involved in a minor collision from which he fled, only to subsequently ram into the Camry. Tabor has been charged with Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (alcohol), and Assault in the Second Degree (2 counts).
Caught in the chaotic aftermath, two vigilant Central Precinct officers were prompt in their response, administering CPR to the critically injured Zahran. Despite their efforts, and the emergency medical services' attempts at life preservation, the young man's injuries proved fatal. The Portland Police Bureau's statement revealed that the driver of the Camry is still hospitalized with serious, injuries, though not life-threatening. The other passenger who was treated and released is likely grappling with the trauma of the crash, and the untimely loss of his companion.
Tabor, who was already in police custody at the time of Zahran's death, had been treated for injuries and released prior his booking at the Multnomah County Detention Center. With the subsequent passage of Zahran, the charges Tabor faces are expected to escalate. The investigation remains in its nascent stage, however, impairment and speed are believed to be contributing factors to the tragedy. Members of the community with any pertinent information, photos, or video evidence have been urged to contact the Traffic Investigations Unit at [email protected], referencing case number 23-33222.
