Portland is grappling with the aftermath of a tragic motorcycle accident that claimed the lives of two individuals on the Morrison Bridge. According to the Portland Police Bureau, the fatal incident occurred on Thursday, June 13, at approximately 8:04 p.m. Responding officers discovered the bodies of the deceased on Southeast Water Avenue at the intersection with Southeast Morrison Street.
The preliminary investigation indicates that the motorcycle was moving on eastbound Morrison Bridge's ramp towards northbound I-5 when the rider and a passenger were ejected over the barrier, falling to a parking lot below. As of now, investigators believe no other vehicles were involved in the crash. The Portland Police Traffic Division Major Crash Team was called to the scene and remains dedicated to piecing together the circumstances that led to this fatal conclusion.
During the investigation, authorities have closed off the ramp from eastbound Morrison Bridge to northbound I-5 and a section of Southeast Water Avenue. Meanwhile, the Morrison Bridge remains open, allowing for continued flow of traffic in both directions. The public has been encouraged to come forward with any information that could shed light on the crash by reaching out to Portland Police via email, referencing case number 24-146033.
This incident marks the 24th and 25th traffic fatalities in Portland this year, with six deaths now associated with motorcycle accidents. The Portland Police Traffic Division is urging the public to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic laws to prevent further tragedies. In their ongoing efforts to foster safety, traffic officers focus on targeting behaviors such as speeding, impairment, and distracted driving among all road users. These efforts come in the wake of collisions that often reverberate devastatingly through families and communities.
