DOUGLAS, COOS COUNTY, Ore. — A two-vehicle crash at the junction of Powers Highway and Highway 42 on April 18 resulted in two fatalities involving members of the Umpqua Community College softball team.
The accident occurred around 6:15 p.m. as a Chevy Silverado merged onto Highway 42 westbound, crossing into oncoming traffic and colliding with the team's bus, which was heading eastbound. According to Oregon State Police, the bus passenger, Kiley Nevaeh Jones, 19, and driver, Jami Lea Strinz, 46, sustained fatal injuries. Eight other occupants of the bus received significant injuries and were treated by emergency responders at the scene. The Silverado's driver, 32-year-old Johnathan James Dowdy, was hospitalized with serious injuries.
Authorities reported that the crash is currently under investigation. UCC President Dr. Rachel Pokrandt emphasized the need for community support for impacted students and staff. “There's the physical aches and pains and then there's the emotional which we're focusing on right now,” she said.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with multiple emergency vehicles at the location. The investigation revealed that Dowdy had prior driving-related convictions, including charges for driving under the influence.
As of April 20, two team members remain hospitalized. Community efforts have begun to raise funds and support for the victims' families and the college's softball team, which is in its inaugural season. Audrey Frable, mother of injured player Haven Frable, remarked on the emotional toll this tragedy has taken on the young athletes, who are in urgent need of ongoing support.