Two men died in a single vehicle crash on the Morrison Bridge viaduct, which resulted in the vehicle falling onto Southeast Water Avenue.
On Sunday, June 4, 2023 at 2:17a.m., Central Precinct officers responded to a report of a rollover crash on Southeast Water Avenue and Southeast Belmont Street. When officers arrived they found two men deceased at the scene. Preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle’s driver, in a black 2003 Mercedes 500, was eastbound on the Morrison Bridge viaduct when he struck the barrier and went over, landing on the street below. The driver and passenger died in the crash. No one else was injured.
The Portland Police Traffic Division Major Crash Team responded to the scene to investigate. During the investigation, eastbound traffic on the Morrison Bridge was closed, as was traffic both directions on Southeast Water Avenue. After the conclusion of the on-scene investigation, the closure was lifted about 8:00a.m.
Speed and alcohol are believed to be contributing factors in the crash. No other vehicles are suspected to be involved.
The investigation is continuing, and investigators would like to hear from anyone who has information about the crash or what immediately preceded it. Please e-mail crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov attention Traffic Investigations Unit and reference case number 23-146476.
Additional information will be released when appropriate. These are the 25th and 26th traffic fatalities for 2023 in the City of Portland.
