PORTLAND, Ore. (Apr. 8, 2026) — Authorities say a vehicle fleeing a police officer in downtown Portland early Monday morning crashed into the Willamette River, killing two people and leaving a third presumed dead.
According to the Portland Police Bureau, the incident began shortly after 2 a.m. on April 6, when a Central Precinct officer observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed, going the wrong direction and running red lights in downtown streets.
Near Southwest 3rd Avenue and Harvey Milk Street, the officer activated overhead lights in an attempt to initiate a traffic stop. Police said the vehicle fled eastbound, and the officer did not pursue. The officer then saw the vehicle continue across Southwest Naito Parkway, through Waterfront Park, and into the Willamette River.
Responding officers located one person in the river who was rescued by Portland Fire & Rescue and transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Search efforts involving the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team led to the recovery of two bodies from the river. Authorities said a third person remains unaccounted for and is presumed dead.
Police credited the coordinated response of multiple agencies, including United States Coast Guard, for their efforts at the scene.
“This is a heartbreaking incident that has resulted in a tragic loss of life,” Assistant Chief Brian Hughes said. “Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected as we continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this event.”
The crash prompted temporary closures along Southwest Naito Parkway and in Waterfront Park between Southwest Oak and Washington streets as investigators from the police Traffic Division’s Major Crash Team examined the scene.
Authorities said additional information will be released as the investigation continues.
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