News
An investigation is underway after a pedestrian was fatally injured in the Buckman Neighborhood, leading to manslaughter and reckless driving charges against the driver.
This update summarizes the reported event and explains the practical legal context Oregon readers may want to understand. It is general information, not case-specific legal advice.
Published March 4, 2024
In the early hours of Sunday, February 25, 2024, a fatal crash occurred in Portland's Buckman Neighborhood, resulting in the death of 48-year-old David R. Bentley. The incident, involving a vehicle and a pedestrian along with a reported gunfire exchange, led to the detention of the driver, Shane M. McKeever, 22, on charges of Manslaughter in the First Degree and Reckless Driving.
At approximately 2:54 a.m., officers from the Central Precinct were dispatched to the intersection of Southeast Belmont Street and Southeast Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue following reports of a crash and gunfire. Upon arrival, emergency personnel attended to Bentley, who was found with severe injuries and later succumbed to them at the hospital. The vehicle involved was located at the scene, and McKeever, after attempting to flee, was detained by community members.
The Portland Police Bureau's Major Crash Team (MCT) is leading the investigation into the crash. During the investigation, significant road closures were implemented to facilitate a thorough examination of the scene. The police urge anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward.
This event marks the 14th traffic-related fatality in Portland for the year 2024, a figure that may vary from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) count due to their specific criteria.
The unfortunate passing of David R. Bentley raises significant legal issues, including potential wrongful death claims and negligence on the part of the driver. In Oregon, cases involving pedestrians and reckless driving are taken very seriously, and the charges against McKeever reflect the gravity of the situation.
For those who have been involved in similar incidents or have questions regarding personal injury or wrongful death claims, seeking legal counsel can provide clarity and support through complex legal processes.
At Pacific Injury Law Firm, our experienced team is committed to advocating for the rights of accident victims and their families. For a free consultation, please contact us or call 971-277-3811.
Source reporting used to prepare this update and preserve citation transparency.
Insurance calls, medical bills, missed work, and uncertainty tend to arrive at the same time. The first job is to steady the situation: understand the facts, preserve useful records, and talk through the legal options that fit your Oregon injury claim.
“... I was referred to Adam who was able to take my case and quickly get it resolved for more than I expected. I was very pleasantly surprised by his attention to detail and tenacious negotiating tactics... Adam handled everything to make sure I received the maximum compensation for my injuries. If you need a good personal injury lawyer you just found one.”
Jim West
Tenacious Negotiating Tactics
Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case outcomes are shared only when they can be presented accurately and with the right context.
Information submitted through this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Representation is confirmed only in writing.
Photo: KATU
July 27, 2026
July 18, 2026: Police say multiple food carts at The Lot Highway 99 were broken into during the early morning hours of July 13. Vendors reported damaged doors, stolen items, and repair bills after the overnight burglaries.
Learn morePhoto: KATU
July 27, 2026
July 20, 2026: Portland police are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash Sunday night on the Northeast 33rd Avenue overpass above Northeast Columbia Boulevard. Paramedics pronounced the rider dead at the scene, and investigators are asking for witness information.
Learn morePhoto: KATU
July 27, 2026
July 20, 2026: Oregon State Police say a 54-year-old Eagle Point man died Saturday after his motorcycle left Highway 140 near milepost 6 and hit a guardrail in Jackson County. Witnesses told troopers the bike was traveling at high speed before the crash.
Learn moreInjured in Oregon?
Call or send the basics
