ROGUE RIVER, Ore. — A 17-year-old driver has been arrested following an investigation into a rollover crash that killed an 18-year-old passenger and sparked the East Evans Creek Fire, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies arrested the teen on Sept. 18 in connection with the July 10 crash on East Evans Creek Road in rural Rogue River.
The 18-year-old passenger, who was traveling in a 2002 Ford Ranger, died July 18 at a local hospital from injuries sustained in the crash, authorities said. The victim’s name has not been released.
The 17-year-old was lodged at the Jackson County Juvenile Detention Facility on allegations of criminally negligent homicide, reckless driving and second-degree criminal mischief. Authorities are withholding the teen’s identity in accordance with Oregon law because he is a juvenile.
The crash was reported at about 2:39 p.m. July 10 in the 18,000 block of East Evans Creek Road. An Oregon Department of Forestry crew was already patrolling nearby and arrived within approximately 30 seconds, providing aid while also working to suppress a fire that started following the crash.
Despite the initial response, flames spread through dry vegetation, prompting evacuations and eventually burning more than 15,000 acres.
Investigators with the Jackson County Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team determined during their preliminary investigation that the pickup left a nearby licensed cannabis production site at a high rate of speed before striking a power pole, according to JCSO.
Investigators also determined the driver did not have a valid driver’s license at the time of the crash. JCSO said analysis of physical and digital evidence identified speed as the primary contributing factor.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities said additional information will be released by the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.