Three people were found dead in the 22000 block of NE Dopp Road near Newberg on April 20 in what investigators say appear to be fentanyl overdoses. Deputies with the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office and crews from the Gaston Rural Fire District responded to a 911 report of multiple overdose victims and confirmed all three had died at the scene. Authorities later identified the victims as Timothy Dean Crisman, 28, of McMinnville, along with Roberto Refugio Hernandez, 35, and Virginia Ann Rarick, 56, both of Newberg.
What officials say
According to the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office, Yamhill Communications Agency took a 911 call at 4:19 p.m. on April 20 that reported several suspected overdose victims at the Dopp Road address. Deputies were sent to the scene, where the Gaston Rural Fire District had already responded. Investigators from the sheriff’s Street Crimes & Narcotics team (SCAN) and the Special Investigations Unit were then called in to assist with processing the scene and handling the ongoing investigation. In the agency’s statement, Sheriff Sam Elliott described drug overdoses as “one of the most significant public safety threats in Yamhill County.”
Victims and investigation
As reported by the Salem Statesman Journal, all three individuals were declared dead where they were found, and evidence at the location indicates they had contact with suspected fentanyl. Investigators are asking anyone who may have information about what happened to reach out to law enforcement at [email protected].
Where to get help
Officials are underscoring that naloxone, often known by the brand name Narcan, can reverse an opioid overdose. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes naloxone as a life saving medication that can counter the effects of opioids, including fentanyl. Yamhill County Health & Human Services provides walk in drug screening assessments and links to treatment options, according to county information. The sheriff’s release also highlights a deflection program that operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., reachable through any first responder, and notes that people seeking alternatives to arrest can contact a deflection navigator at 971-901-1916.
Statewide context
State health materials warn that illicit fentanyl has reshaped Oregon’s drug supply and raised the risk of overdose. The Oregon Health Authority’s fentanyl toolkit reports that unintentional fentanyl deaths in the state more than tripled from 2020 to 2022. Local officials say the deaths near Newberg underscore that fentanyl can be present in other drugs and that swift 911 calls and access to naloxone can be critical in an emergency.
Residents who believe someone may be overdosing are urged to call 911 right away and can share information related to suspected drug activity by emailing [email protected]. For more details on services and walk in screening times, contact Yamhill County Health & Human Services or email [email protected].
