Cyclist who died in ‘tragic’ collision with MAX train identified as former Portland mayoral candidate

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — One day after a bicyclist died in what transportation authorities called a “tragic” collision with a MAX train in southeast Portland, officials are now identifying the person killed.

Michael O’Callaghan died on Wednesday afternoon after being struck by a MAX Orange Line train, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office told KOIN 6 News, via confirmation with the Medical Examiner.

O’Callaghan was homeless and was a former candidate for Portland mayor. According to his campaign website, he was involved in advocacy for decades, ranging from organizing campaigns to feed the hungry and fighting back against an anti-camping ordinance in Portland.

A TriMet spokesperson released the following statement on the incident:

“A MAX Orange Line train was proceeding through the rail crossing at Southeast 8^th Avenue and Division Street at about 1:37 p.m. today, when a person on a bicycle entered the crossing and was fatally struck by the train. This is a tragic incident and a very difficult situation for everyone involved. Our thoughts are with the cyclist, our operator and those who witnessed the incident. The collision is under investigation. TriMet is working closely with authorities as we respond to the scene. At this time, MAX Orange Line service is disrupted, with shuttle buses serving stations between Lincoln St/SW 3rd Ave and Clinton St/SE 12th Ave.“

A Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson released the following statement on the incident:

“Transit Police Unit investigators determined the cyclist was traveling northbound on SE 8th Avenue, when the man encountered the railroad crossing arms lowered and traffic. The cyclist rode his bike into the opposing southbound lanes of travel, where there are no crossing arms, and was subsequently hit by a MAX train traveling in the direction of Milwaukie as he crossed the railroad tracks.”