Fatal Pedestrian Accident on Highway 97 in Deschutes County Prompts Safety Review

Fatal Pedestrian Accident on Highway 97 in Deschutes County

Deschutes County, Oregon | December 20, 2024 - In the early hours of Friday, December 20, 2024, a devastating pedestrian accident occurred on Highway 97 near milepost 128 in Deschutes County, claiming the life of 28-year-old Glenn Curtis Watkins of Bend. The Oregon State Police (OSP) are currently leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.

Incident Details

The incident transpired around 4:12 a.m. when Steven Thomas Lakey, 54, also from Bend, was driving a Ford Town & Country northbound on Highway 97. For reasons yet to be determined, Watkins was present on the roadway and was subsequently struck by Lakey's vehicle. Watkins was declared deceased at the scene, while Lakey remained unharmed.

The highway underwent a significant disruption, being closed for approximately three hours to facilitate the on-scene investigation conducted by the OSP with assistance from the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, the Redmond Police Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

Legal Implications and Public Safety

Accidents involving pedestrians often raise critical legal questions, especially concerning pedestrian accident injuries and potential wrongful death claims. In Oregon, the liability in such cases can hinge on numerous factors including the pedestrian's presence on the roadway and any potential negligence by the driver.

Investigation and Safety Measures

The Oregon State Police's Collision Reconstruction Unit is dedicated to thoroughly investigating fatal and critical injury collisions. This specialized team provides in-depth documentation and analysis vital to understanding the cause and contributing factors of such accidents. Their expertise is crucial in piecing together the events leading to the collision, utilizing advanced technologies and techniques.

The unfortunate passing of a loved one in a car accident that was not their fault can indeed raise significant legal issues including wrongful death claims in addition to claims for negligence.

Contact Us

For those who have been injured in similar circumstances or have questions regarding their legal rights, Pacific Injury Law Firm offers free consultations. We encourage you to contact us or call us at 971-277-3811 to discuss how our dedicated team of attorneys can assist you.