BREAKING: Two Fatal Crashes Claim Lives in Eastern Oregon
BREAKING: Two separate crashes in Eastern Oregon have tragically claimed the lives of two individuals in just a matter of days. The Oregon State Police (OSP) confirmed the incidents occurred on August 27 and August 30, 2023, raising urgent concerns about road safety in the region.
The first fatal crash happened on August 27 at approximately 4:22 p.m. on Interstate 84 near milepost 172 in Union County. Authorities report that Jejo Haes, a 28-year-old from La Grande, was driving a white Ford F350 pickup truck westbound when the vehicle veered off the road, crashed into a tree, and ended up at the bottom of a creek bed. Tragically, Haes died at the scene. OSP has not yet determined the factors that led to this fatal crash.
Just days later, on August 30 at 1:42 p.m., another deadly incident occurred on Highway 402 near milepost 31.5. Preliminary investigations indicate that Phillip Westly Bunger, a 63-year-old from Tacoma, Washington, was riding a maroon Honda motorcycle eastbound when he lost control. The motorcycle hit loose gravel on the shoulder, tipped over, and rolled several times, resulting in Bunger’s death at the scene. OSP has also stated that the cause of the motorcycle leaving the road is under investigation.
Authorities confirmed that neither crash impacted traffic flow, but the loss of life has raised alarms regarding safety measures on these highways.
The community is in mourning as both families navigate the aftermath of these tragic events. OSP urges all drivers to remain vigilant and cautious to prevent further tragedies on the road.
As investigations continue, the public is reminded to stay tuned for updates on these incidents. The urgency of road safety cannot be overstated, and these events serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by drivers daily.
