The Portland Police Bureau announced on April 14 that Jakob Esperum, 20, of Beavercreek, Oregon, has been identified as the third person who died in a vehicle crash into the Willamette River. The families of all deceased individuals have been notified.
This incident involved a fatal car accident that resulted in multiple deaths and required extensive recovery efforts. The case highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and police response to dangerous driving situations.
According to police reports, the crash occurred shortly after 2:00 a.m. on Monday, April 6. A Central Precinct officer observed a vehicle speeding in the wrong direction and running red lights in downtown Portland. When officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop near Southwest 3rd Avenue and Harvey Milk Street, the vehicle fled eastbound before crossing Southwest Naito Parkway into Waterfront Park and ultimately crashing into the river. Officers did not pursue but witnessed the incident.
Emergency responders located one survivor with non-life-threatening injuries who was rescued from the river by Portland Fire & Rescue. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team recovered two bodies from the water while another occupant remained unaccounted for at that time but was presumed deceased.
The Medical Examiner previously identified Roberto C. Garcia-Chavez, 19, and Trent Badillo, 17—both from Beavercreek—as two other victims of the crash. Investigators believe Garcia-Chavez was driving a white 1996 Toyota Corolla during the incident.
Assistant Chief Brian Hughes said: “This is a heartbreaking incident that has resulted in a tragic loss of life. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected as we continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this event.” Police are working to recover the submerged vehicle using specialized contractors due to logistical challenges involved with water-based retrievals.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities plan further recovery operations and urge anyone with information about this case (number 26-98006) to contact them.
