Authorities have identified two people who died after a car plunged into the Willamette River early Monday morning, while a fourth person remains missing and is presumed dead.
The Multnomah County Medical Examiner confirmed the victims as Roberto C. Garcia-Chavez, 19, and Trent Badillo, 17, both from Beavercreek in Clackamas County. Families have been notified. A third occupant, a 17-year-old boy, survived and was rescued from the river with non-life-threatening injuries. A fourth occupant, believed to be a 20-year-old man, has not been located, and authorities presume he is deceased. His identity has not yet been released.
Investigators believe Garcia-Chavez was driving a white 1996 Toyota Corolla at the time of the crash. The incident occurred shortly after 2 a.m. when a Portland police officer observed a vehicle traveling the wrong way and running red lights in downtown Portland. When the officer attempted to pull the car over, it sped east on Southwest Harvey Milk Street. The officer did not pursue the vehicle but witnessed it cross Southwest Naito Parkway, enter Waterfront Park, and drive into the Willamette River.
First responders were able to rescue the surviving 17-year-old. Multnomah County Sheriff divers conducted recovery efforts in approximately 35 feet of water with zero visibility, successfully retrieving the bodies of Garcia-Chavez and Badillo later the same day.
Authorities say the car will be removed from the river, though the timeline for this operation is unclear as officials work to hire a contractor with the proper equipment.
Police have emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to the crash is asked to contact Portland police.
This tragic incident has left families and the Portland community reeling, highlighting the dangers of high-speed and reckless driving.
