Douglas County, Oregon- On Sunday, June 9, 2024, at 8:00 a.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to a tragic single-vehicle crash on Hwy-230, near milepost 10, in Douglas County.
Preliminary investigations revealed that a southbound Ford F150, driven by Jason Michael Ettenberger (24) of Portland, veered off the southbound shoulder of the roadway while navigating a left-hand turn. The vehicle then overcorrected, crossing back onto the roadway before rolling several times down an embankment, ultimately coming to rest on its passenger side.
Tragically, during the rollover, the passenger, identified as Austin Cordell Belford (31) of Eagle Point, was ejected from the vehicle and declared deceased at the scene. It was noted that Belford did not appear to have been wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
Ettenberger, the driver, sustained injuries and was promptly transported to an area hospital for treatment.
The aftermath of the accident resulted in a significant impact on the highway, causing a 4.5-hour disruption as authorities conducted their on-scene investigation. Speed and lack of occupant safety, notably the absence of seatbelt use, are believed to be the primary factors contributing to the crash.
OSP received assistance from Diamond Lake Resort First Responders, Umpqua Valley Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) in managing the incident.
As investigations continue, authorities urge all motorists to prioritize safe driving practices and adhere to seatbelt regulations to prevent further tragedies on the roads.
Source: OSP
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