Oregon State Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred Wednesday morning on Highway 101 near milepost 223 in Coos County.
According to authorities, the incident happened at approximately 6:09 a.m. when a northbound Ford F-150 towing a flatbed trailer, driven by 30-year-old Matthew Rafael Gonzalez of St. George, Utah, encountered black ice on the roadway. Gonzalez reportedly lost control, struck the guardrail, and crossed into the southbound lane, where the vehicle collided with a Chevy Tracker driven by 64-year-old James Ervin Bramhall of Lakeside.
A third vehicle, a blue Dodge 1500 pickup driven by 24-year-old John Paul Burgmeier of Coos Bay, then rear-ended the flatbed, also due to icy conditions.
Bramhall was pronounced deceased at the scene. Gonzalez sustained minor injuries, while Burgmeier was reported to have no injuries.
The crash caused significant traffic delays, with Highway 101 impacted for roughly three and a half hours as emergency responders and investigators worked on scene.
Oregon State Police were assisted by the Lakeside Fire Department, Houser Fire Department, Winchester Bay Fire Department, Lower Umpqua Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Officials noted that icy road conditions were a contributing factor and reminded drivers to exercise caution during winter weather and adjust speeds according to road conditions.
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing, and authorities are reviewing all factors to determine the full circumstances. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
