Police urge road safety after 3 back-to-back fatal crashes in NE Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Investigations are underway after three back-to-back fatal crashes happened in Northeast Portland on Wednesday night.

The Portland Police Bureau is now urging the public to be cautious when traversing the darkened streets, especially heading into the busy Halloween weekend.

With more foliage on the roads and the sun setting earlier this time of year, PPB Traffic Division Sergeant Betsy Hornstein said it’s important for drivers to be extra careful.

“People are harder to see sometimes. Kids, they move fast because they’re having a great time and they’re trick or treating, and they aren’t as aware of the dangers of being out and crossing the streets,” Hornstein said.

At 6:21 p.m., PPB and Portland Fire and Rescue responded to a crash near Northeast Glisan Street and Northeast 111th Avenue, where a bicyclist died on the scene after being hit by a car.

Less than two hours later, two other crashes happened around the same time: One crash was near Northeast 102nd and Northeast Holladay Street, where a woman died after being hit by a car, and the other happened near Northeast Glisan Street and Northeast 122nd Avenue when a man was hit by a car, taken to the hospital, and later died.

All three involved drivers stayed at the scene after the crashes happened, Portland police said. The crashes all happened within the Hazelwood Neighborhood.

Portland police said they can’t confirm whether or not alcohol was a factor in the three crashes or whether any of the drivers may face traffic violation charges. More information may come to light as the investigations continue.

Hornstein said having to tell families when fatal crashes happen is one of the hardest parts of her job.

“Their world has been turned upside down,” she said.

Wearing bright yellow safety vests over Halloween costumes is one method for staying safe while trick-or-treating, police said. In addition, officials urge pedestrians to always use crosswalks when the signal is activated and make sure cars are stopped before crossing the street.

Police are also urging drivers to obey all traffic laws, stop at stop lights and stop signs, and make alternative plans like a rideshare or walk if people plan to drink alcohol or consume other intoxicants that can impair driving.