Tragic Highway 26 Crash Claims Lives of Elderly Couple Near Seaside, Oregon

Clatsop and Washington Counties, Oregon | June 21, 2025
In two separate single-vehicle accidents on Oregon highways last Friday, three lives were lost, underscoring the risks motorists face on rural roads and the potential legal standards that may apply when investigating fatal crashes in the state.

Elderly Couple Killed in Highway 26 Crash Near Seaside

Shortly after 4 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a fatal crash on Highway 26 near milepost 8, just outside of Seaside in Clatsop County. Authorities found 74-year-old Richard Scott McIntosh of Seaside deceased at the scene. His passenger, 72-year-old Michele Arnold McIntosh, also of Seaside, was transported to a nearby hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.

According to police, the couple was traveling westbound in a white Genesis GV70 SUV when the vehicle left the roadway, climbed a dirt embankment, and collided with a tree. No other vehicles were involved.

Fatal Crash Near Banks Claims Life of Local Woman

Later that evening, around 9 p.m., another fatal single-vehicle crash occurred—this time on Highway 47 near milepost 81 outside Banks in Washington County. Authorities identified the victim as 72-year-old Jeannine Bradvice, a local resident.

Investigators say Bradvice was driving a blue Subaru Forester northbound when she lost control of the vehicle, veered into a ditch, and struck a tree. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Oregon State Police reported that speed may have been a contributing factor in the crash. The highway was closed for over three hours during the investigation.

Legal and Safety Considerations in Single-Vehicle Accidents

While single-vehicle accidents may appear straightforward, they can raise complex legal questions—especially when injuries or fatalities occur. In Oregon, drivers and their families may have legal recourse in certain situations, especially if a defect in the vehicle, a dangerous road condition, or another party's negligence played a role in the crash.

If a road is improperly maintained or lacks adequate signage, for example, a premises liability claim against a governmental entity may be possible. Similarly, if a vehicle malfunction—such as brake failure or tire blowout—contributed to the collision, a personal injury or product liability claim could be warranted.

In the case of the McIntoshes, authorities have not indicated any external causes beyond the vehicle leaving the roadway. However, the fact that both victims were elderly may bring into question whether a medical event or other underlying issue contributed to the crash—something that may become relevant during insurance or estate proceedings.

In the Banks crash, investigators cited speed as a likely factor. Speeding can significantly increase risk on rural highways, where curves, narrow shoulders, and limited visibility are common. Even in single-car accidents, surviving family members should consider consulting a legal professional to understand their rights—especially in cases where vehicle defects or inadequate road maintenance could have played a role.

The Emotional and Legal Toll of Fatal Accidents

The loss of a loved one in a car accident is emotionally devastating and may result in long-term financial burdens for surviving family members. In some instances, next of kin may have grounds for a wrongful death claim, which can provide compensation for funeral expenses, lost companionship, and other damages.

Given the circumstances of both crashes—elderly drivers, rural roadways, and fatal outcomes—these incidents serve as a somber reminder about the critical importance of caution on Oregon’s highways. They also highlight the necessity of a thorough investigation into all possible causes, especially when legal action may be an option.

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a car accident in Oregon, Pacific Injury Law Firm is here to help. We offer compassionate, experienced legal advice and free consultations. Contact us today at pacificinjurylawfirm.com/contact or call 971-277-3811.

Sources:

• FOX 12 Staff (opens in a new tab)
• FOX 12 Staff (opens in a new tab)
• Sami Edge | The Oregonian/OregonLive (opens in a new tab)