Major Crash Team Probes Incident Involving Stolen Vehicle Striking Two Pedestrians

Portland, Oregon | July 27, 2025

Stolen Vehicle Eludes Police, Crashes into Pedestrians in Downtown Portland

Two pedestrians were seriously injured Sunday afternoon after a driver in a stolen vehicle eluded police and crashed in Portland’s Pearl District, according to the Portland Police Bureau. The incident occurred around 1:02 p.m. near the intersection of Northwest 6th Avenue and Northwest Glisan Street.

Attempted Traffic Stop Leads to Eluding

Officers from the Central Precinct attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a stolen vehicle near Northwest 9th Avenue and West Burnside Street. The suspect driver refused to stop and began eluding the officers. In accordance with department policy and safety considerations, officers did not pursue the vehicle.

The fleeing driver continued north through the Pearl District before turning east onto Northwest Glisan Street. The vehicle was later discovered crashed at the intersection of Northwest 6th Avenue and Northwest Glisan Street, having apparently lost control before striking two pedestrians.

Pedestrians Suffer Serious Injuries

The two pedestrians sustained significant injuries and were transported to a local hospital for emergency medical treatment. Their current conditions have not been released. The driver of the stolen vehicle was reportedly uninjured and taken into police custody at the scene.

The Portland Police Bureau’s Major Crash Team responded and has launched a formal investigation. Several downtown streets remain closed as investigators process the scene:

• Northwest 6th Avenue is closed between Northwest Flanders Street and Northwest Hoyt Street.
• Northwest Glisan Street is closed between Northwest 5th Avenue and Northwest Broadway.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Portland Police Bureau’s Traffic Investigations Unit at crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov (opens in a new tab) and reference case number 25-201377.

Legal Considerations in Oregon for Injured Pedestrians

This disturbing incident raises serious concerns under Oregon personal injury law. When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle—especially in a case involving a fleeing driver or a stolen vehicle—the injured parties may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care needs through a pedestrian accident injury claim.

Additionally, Oregon law allows those harmed by another’s reckless actions to pursue personal injury claims. Even though the stolen vehicle complicates matters regarding insurance coverage, crime victims may still have options for compensation through the Oregon Crime Victims’ Compensation Program or uninsured motorist coverage if applicable.

If the injuries to either pedestrian prove fatal, surviving family members would also have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim, which could include compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.

Public Safety and Calls for Accountability

Events like this underscore the risks pedestrians face in urban traffic environments, particularly when criminal activity and vehicular flight are involved. Portland’s Pearl District, known for its walkability and high foot traffic, is especially vulnerable to such incidents.

While police followed protocol in not pursuing the fleeing suspect to avoid escalating the danger, the consequences for the pedestrians were still severe. Ensuring accountability and supporting the victims will be critical as the investigation continues.

Know Your Rights If You’ve Been Injured

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident or a similar event, it’s important to understand your legal rights. The experienced team at Pacific Injury Law Firm can help navigate complex legal issues and determine the best course of action. For a free consultation, call 971-277-3811 or contact us online.

Sources:

• Portland Police Bureau (opens in a new tab)