A student-athlete and an Oregon college softball coach were killed in a collision involving their team’s bus and a pickup truck.
According to Oregon State Police, the fatal incident occurred around 9:56 p.m. local time on Friday, April 18, while Jami Lea Strinz was driving a Chevrolet Express bus with ten members of the Umpqua Community College softball team on board on Highway 42, near milepost 23 in Coos County.
Strinz, 46, died in the hospital from “critical injuries” sustained in the truck collision. Kiley Nevaeh Jones, 19, a freshman from Nampa who played first base, died on the scene.
The remaining eight passengers were treated for “moderate to serious injuries,” according to authorities. Their identities have not yet been revealed.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that one of our student-athletes, Kiley Jones, and one of our coaches, Jami Strinz, lost their lives in the accident,” UCC President Dr. Rachel Pokrandt stated in a statement. “Additional staff and students remain in hospitals in Eugene and Portland.”
“UCC hearts are breaking with this news, and we ask the community to keep the families and all of those affected in their thoughts and prayers,” said to Dr. Pokrandt. “These individuals were cherished members of our campus—an exceptional student-athlete, and a passionate and talented coach.”
“Our entire community is grieving this tragic loss, and our heartfelt condolences are with their families, teammates, and loved ones,” she said. “We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and offer privacy for the families during this difficult time.”
Support services are accessible to all students, educators, and staff. Please join us in allowing for grief and meditation as we remember these people,” Dr. Pokrandt said.
According to Oregon State Police, the truck involved in the crash was driven by Johnathan Dowdy. He needed to be transferred to an emergency medical facility after suffering significant injuries.
Oregon State Police received assistance from the Myrtle Point Police Department, the Coquille Police Department, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, Myrtle Point Fire, Coquille Fire, and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).
Tina Kotek, Governor of Oregon, extended her condolences for those slain in a post on X, writing, “My heart aches for the @umpquacc family reeling from this tragedy.” Oregon is here to support you through your grief and loss. You’re in my prayers. Thank you to @ORStatePolice and other emergency responders for their kind reaction.”