Driver charged after one passenger was killed and another injured
December 24, 2025 | North Bend, OR
What Happened in the North Bend DUII Crash?
Reef Michael Berry was arrested on manslaughter and DUII charges after a fatal single-vehicle crash at Transpacific Parkway and Jordan Cove Road in North Bend.
On Dec. 24, a single-vehicle crash near Transpacific Parkway and Jordan Cove Road in North Bend claimed the life of a 19-year-old passenger and injured another, according to the Coos County Sheriff’s Office. The driver, 22-year-old Reef Michael Berry, faces multiple charges including manslaughter and DUII.
- Date: Dec. 24, 2025.
- Location: Intersection of Transpacific Parkway and Jordan Cove Road, North Bend, Oregon.
- Vehicle Involved: Single vehicle, details on make and model pending investigation.
- Victims: One 19-year-old passenger deceased, another passenger injured and hospitalized.
- Driver: Reef Michael Berry, 22, charged with manslaughter, assault, DUII, recklessly endangering another person, reckless driving, and driving while suspended or revoked license.
- Agency: Coos County Sheriff’s Office leading the investigation.
The crash occurred when Berry's vehicle veered off course, resulting in the death of one occupant and serious injuries to the other. Emergency responders transported the injured passenger to a local hospital for treatment.
Why Do DUII Crashes Happen in Oregon?
Driving under the influence remains a leading cause of fatal accidents nationwide. In Oregon, DUII laws encompass impairment from alcohol, marijuana, prescription drugs, and even over-the-counter substances like certain cough syrups.
Impaired drivers often experience diminished judgment, blurred vision, poor coordination, and slower reaction times, increasing crash risks dramatically.
Factor |
Impact on Driving |
Source |
|---|
Alcohol Impairment |
Reduces reaction time by up to 25% |
NHTSA |
Marijuana Use |
Affects judgment and coordination |
CDC |
Combined Substances |
Multiplies crash risk by 5-10 times |
Federal Highway Administration |
Distracted Driving with Impairment |
Contributes to 40% of fatal crashes |
NHTSA |
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that alcohol and other impairing drugs factor into about 40% of fatal traffic incidents annually.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts provide perspective on DUII-related crashes and potential recourse for affected parties.
“In cases such as this, families of those affected may pursue compensation through civil actions against the at-fault driver,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “An attorney can offer guidance during challenging periods, safeguarding rights and promoting accountability for impaired driving.”
- Victims' families could file wrongful death claims for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
- Injured individuals may seek personal injury compensation for medical expenses and recovery.
- Legal representation ensures updates on investigations and protects interests.
- Oregon's strict DUII penalties underscore the need for thorough accountability.
“Understanding the profound effects on families is crucial, and protecting their rights is essential in the aftermath of such tragedies,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “A dedicated lawyer can navigate the process, securing damages for companionship loss and emotional hardship.”
Newsline maintains rigorous editorial standards as a premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc. Our unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence ensures accurate reporting. For transparency, review our Corrections Policy, which guarantees a 24-hour review of any concerns.
Interested in reaching audiences through quality journalism? Advertise with Newsline.
(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.
If a reckless driver has caused injury or death to you or a loved one, Candice Bond is available for a no-cost consultation to help you understand your options.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).