MEDFORD, Ore. — Cassie Jane Cavagnaro, the woman accused of hitting and killing a cyclist while under the influence of intoxicants in October 2023, has filed a motion to continue her pretrial conference. The motion was granted by a judge on Tuesday, moving the pretrial hearing to August 18, 2025.
Cavagnaro’s defense counsel argued that additional time was necessary to continue working with multiple experts and to thoroughly review newly received discovery materials. They also cited the appointment of a new Deputy District Attorney to the case, who would need time to become familiar with the details of the matter.
“The defense is not intending to delay the trial,” the defense team said in the motion, emphasizing that the request was for the purpose of proper preparation.
Cavagnaro is facing nine charges in connection with a fatal hit-and-run incident that took place on October 11, 2023. The charges include first-degree manslaughter, second-degree manslaughter, failure to perform duties of a driver to injured persons, failure to perform duties of a driver to property damage, two counts of recklessly endangering another person, driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII), reckless driving, and second-degree criminal mischief.
The charges stem from a collision that left 41-year-old Jason Thomas, a former Bend chef, dead. Thomas had been riding his bike when he was struck by Cavagnaro, who allegedly fled the scene of the accident.
Cavagnaro’s defense team had previously filed a motion on January 22 to move the pretrial conference to April 28, 2025. However, the most recent motion sought an even later date, citing the ongoing need to assess evidence and consult with experts.
The new pretrial date will provide both the defense and the prosecution additional time to prepare for the trial, which is expected to address the complex issues surrounding the fatal crash.
The case continues to attract local attention as it raises important questions about road safety and the consequences of impaired driving.