Two Umpqua Community College Softball Team Members Killed in Crash
DOUGLAS, COOS COUNTY, Ore. — A collision late Friday evening claimed the lives of two members of the Umpqua Community College (UCC) softball team at the junction of Powers Highway and Highway 42. The crash occurred around 6 p.m. when a Chevy Silverado crossed into oncoming traffic and struck the team bus.
According to the Oregon State Police (OSP), the victims, Kiley Nevaeh Jones, 19, and Jami Lea Strinz, 46, the bus driver, suffered fatal injuries. Eight other occupants of the bus sustained significant injuries and received emergency medical care. The Silverado's driver, identified as Johnathan James Dowdy, 32, was hospitalized with serious injuries.
Dowdy has previous convictions for driving offenses, including a DUI charge pending for March 5, 2025. OSP is conducting a criminal investigation into the incident. UCC President Dr. Rachel Pokrandt stated the school's primary focus is supporting affected students and staff.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene with multiple emergency vehicles at mile post 23. One survivor, freshman Haven Frable, suffered a concussion and broke bones. Her family was informed shortly after the crash and reported seeing the bus overturned.
As UCC's first softball season continues, community members are gathering to support the team through donations and fundraisers. Two players remain hospitalized as the UCC community mourns their loss.