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A single-vehicle crash on HWY 101 in Tillamook County led to the tragic death of Rhonda Sue Heine. The incident involved a Dodge Charger driven by Ellis Miller Heine, who was seriously injured.
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 April 28, 2024
Tillamook County, Oregon | April 27, 2024 - On Saturday, April 27, 2024, at approximately 4:55 p.m., the Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 101 near milepost 39 in Tillamook County. A northbound Dodge Charger, operated by 56-year-old Ellis Miller Heine of Cottage Grove, attempted to pass another vehicle but lost control. The vehicle slid across the northbound lane and into a ditch at highway speeds before striking a tree.
The operator, Ellis Miller Heine, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Unfortunately, the passenger, 55-year-old Rhonda Sue Heine, also of Cottage Grove, was declared deceased at the scene. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
The Oregon State Police were assisted by the Tillamook County Sheriff's Office and Nehalem Bay Fire.
This incident raises several critical legal issues under Oregon law. Given the loss of life, the surviving family members of Rhonda Sue Heine may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Additionally, Ellis Miller Heine, if found at fault, could face liability for negligence, leading to potential civil claims.
Understanding the complex legal landscape following such accidents is crucial for the victims and their families. For those who have been injured in similar accidents or have questions regarding their legal rights, Pacific Injury Law Firm offers free consultations to discuss potential claims and legal options. Please contact us at Pacific Injury Law Firm or call 971-277-3811 for more information.
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.
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