Full Breakdown
Tragic Willamette River Crash Claims Lives of Two Teenagers
4/10/2026, 12:36:43 AM
Incident Overview
Early Monday morning, a tragic incident occurred in Portland, Oregon, when a car crashed into the Willamette River, resulting in the deaths of two teenagers. The victims have been identified as Roberto C. Garcia-Chavez, 19, and Trent Badillo, 17, both residents of Beavercreek in Clackamas County. A third occupant, a 17-year-old male, survived the crash and was rescued from the river, while a fourth occupant, believed to be a 20-year-old male, is still missing and presumed dead.
Sequence of Events
The crash took place shortly after 2 a.m. when a Portland police officer observed a white 1996 Toyota Corolla speeding the wrong way and running red lights in downtown Portland. The officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop; however, the vehicle sped away east on Southwest Harvey Milk Street. The officer did not pursue the vehicle, which subsequently crossed Southwest Naito Parkway, entered Waterfront Park, and plunged into the river. First responders managed to rescue the 17-year-old boy from the water, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Recovery Efforts
Search teams, including Multnomah County Sheriff divers, conducted operations in the river, which had a depth of 35 feet and zero visibility. The bodies of Garcia-Chavez and Badillo were recovered later that day. The search for the fourth occupant continues, with authorities stating that he is presumed dead. The police plan to remove the submerged vehicle from the river, although the timeline for this operation remains uncertain as they seek a contractor with the appropriate equipment.
Official Statements & Responses
Portland police confirmed the identities of the deceased and noted that their families have been notified. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is ongoing, with police emphasizing the need for thorough examination of the events leading up to the incident.
Criticism & Opposition
While the investigation is still in its early stages, some community members have raised concerns about the police's decision not to pursue the vehicle after it fled the traffic stop. Critics argue that a chase might have prevented the crash, although police protocols regarding high-speed pursuits are designed to prioritize public safety.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is currently no information regarding the identity of the missing 20-year-old male occupant. Additionally, details surrounding the exact circumstances that led to the vehicle's erratic driving behavior prior to the crash have not been disclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
“Authorities say two people have died and a third is presumed dead after a car sped through downtown Portland early Monday and plunged into the Willamette River.” — KPTV News
“Police said the investigation is ongoing.” — Portland Police Department
