DJ Buckner hurt when vehicle plunges into Willamette River in Portland

Vehicle fled attempted stop, ran red lights, and plunged into river at Tom McCall Waterfront Park

April 06, 2026 | Portland, OR

A devastating single-vehicle accident early Monday along Naito Parkway resulted in two fatalities, one person presumed dead, and a survivor with minor injuries.

DJ Buckner, 17, was injured after a car fleeing a traffic stop crashed through a barricade and plunged into the Willamette River in Portland.

What Happened in the Crash?

Police observed a white 1996 Toyota Corolla speeding around 2 a.m. on April 6. The vehicle ran multiple red lights and drove the wrong way on downtown streets.

Officers attempted a traffic stop, but the driver fled. The car accelerated east on S.W. Harvey Milk Street, crossed Naito Parkway, and entered Tom McCall Waterfront Park. It then crashed through a barricade and plunged into the Willamette River.

• Date and Time: April 6, around 2 a.m.
• Location: Naito Parkway, crossing into Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland, OR
• Vehicle: White 1996 Toyota Corolla
• Occupants:

  • DJ Buckner, 17, of Beavercreek: Rescued with minor injuries, hospitalized
  • Two unnamed occupants: Recovered from the river, pronounced dead
  • Fourth occupant, 20-year-old man: Missing and presumed dead

• Response Agencies: Portland Police Department, Multnomah County Sheriff's Office dive teams, Portland Fire & Rescue
• Current Status: Vehicle submerged, recovery efforts ongoing, incident not classified as a pursuit

The Portland Police Department is investigating the crash.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

High-speed driving, fleeing law enforcement, and poor judgment in urban areas contribute to such tragedies. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding was a factor in 29% of fatal crashes in 2022.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in motor vehicle crashes.

“It is imperative to come to a determination of the exact cause of these types of accidents. An attorney has the resources to review applicable insurance coverage, hire witnesses, run background checks, and locate witnesses. We carefully guide the family of the victim through the process,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal.

She noted that, in cases such as this, an independent investigation is crucial to preserve evidence.

“In addition to a police report, an attorney will carefully review what may have contributed to the crash. A lawyer has the resources to hire witnesses, conduct drivers’ background checks, locate witnesses to the crash and review applicable insurance coverage. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help guide an injury victim through what can be a complicated process.”

• Key Takeaways:

  • Preserve evidence through independent investigations to ensure accurate fault determination.
  • Review insurance and background details to build a strong case.
  • Guide victims' families with comprehensive support during recovery.

DJ Buckner may pursue a personal injury claim based on the investigation outcomes.

“Injured victims involved in a collision often seek a personal injury claim to cover the cost of medical bills, future medical care, loss of income, emotional trauma, and pain and suffering," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. "Insurance companies can be notoriously unconcerned with the mounting costs that an injured party may accrue. That's where an attorney can help. We protect the victims of these tragedies daily, forcing the insurance companies to pay for their mistakes.”

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