Medford, OR — A hit-and-run crash in Medford on Wednesday evening left a 31-year-old man with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The incident occurred near the intersection of Riverside Avenue and 9th Street, an area where pedestrian safety has been a growing concern.
According to the Medford Police Department (MPD), the man was walking in a marked crosswalk when he was struck by a vehicle. The crosswalk’s warning lights were activated at the time of the crash. The victim, whose identity has not been released, was transported to the hospital following the collision.
The crash comes just months after the city implemented a 20 mph speed limit on Riverside Avenue between S Riverside Avenue and 8th Street, aimed at improving safety in the area. Despite these efforts, some community members say they still feel unsafe when walking through the intersection.
Rogue Community College student Gabriel Mackey, who frequently crosses the area, shared his own close call. “One time, I was crossing, and I’d say it was more of my fault because I wasn’t really looking out for cars,” Mackey said. He noted that pedestrians, especially in high-traffic areas, must stay vigilant.
Timothy Klein, another student, emphasized the dangers of distractions, particularly the use of headphones while walking. “A lot of people tend to cross the street with their headphones in, which I think you shouldn’t do,” Klein said. “They see the flashing lights and they go, but that’s not good.”
Medford Police said a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy located the vehicle involved about three hours after the crash. The driver, identified as 18-year-old Shane Gavazza of Medford, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on charges of felony hit-and-run and third-degree assault.
As of Thursday morning, Gavazza remained in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.
Authorities are urging both pedestrians and drivers to remain extra cautious in the area, especially during busy hours. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for heightened awareness and safety measures to prevent accidents involving pedestrians.