Tragedy struck Northeast Portland early Monday morning, resulting in the death of Zachary D. Fine, 51, after a two-vehicle crash. The Portland Police Bureau issued a statement identifying Fine and providing details on the circumstances surrounding the incident. The family of the victim has been notified, marking a solemn moment for loved ones and the community at large.
Authorities say that Fine was a passenger in a 2007 Dodge Caliber turning southbound onto Northeast 118th Avenue, when it was struck by an eastbound 2009 Acura TSX. Excessive speed is believed by the Traffic Investigations Unit to have played a critical role in the crash. With this incident, Portland's streets became witness to the city's 56th traffic fatality of the year. The count, although grim, may not align with the numbers provided by the NHTSA, which has a more selective criteria for traffic fatality inclusions.
The aftermath of the accident led to the arrest of Manuel D. Espana Torres, 21, a Portland resident. Charged with Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Criminally Negligent Homicide, and Reckless Driving, he was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center after being medically cleared. The investigation remains active, and officials are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in piecing together the moments that led to the fatal event.
Information pertaining to the crash can be sent to the Traffic Investigations Unit by e-mailing [email protected] with the case number 24-276254, which they should include as the incident remains under investigation.
