Trent Badillo killed in single-vehicle crash into Willamette River

Vehicle fled attempted traffic stop and veered through Tom McCall Waterfront Park

April 06, 2026 | Portland, OR

A devastating single-vehicle crash early Monday in Portland claimed the lives of two young men, left one person missing and presumed dead, and resulted in one survivor with minor injuries. 

The incident occurred along Naito Parkway and involved a white 1996 Toyota Corolla that plunged into the Willamette River.

Trent Badillo, 17, died after a car fleeing a traffic stop crashed through a barricade and plunged into the Willamette River in Portland.

What Happened in the Portland Crash?

Portland Police officers spotted the vehicle speeding around 2 a.m. on April 6. The car ran multiple red lights and traveled the wrong way on downtown streets before officers attempted a traffic stop.

• The driver accelerated east on Southwest Harvey Milk Street.
• The vehicle crossed Naito Parkway and entered Tom McCall Waterfront Park.
• It crashed through a barricade and submerged in the Willamette River.

Recovery efforts confirmed the deaths of 17-year-old Trent Badillo of Beavercreek, a passenger, and a 19-year-old man from Beavercreek believed to be the driver. Both were pulled from the river and pronounced dead at the scene.

A 20-year-old occupant remains missing and is presumed dead. Dive teams from the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office and Portland Fire & Rescue used sonar to search the area. The 17-year-old survivor was rescued from the water and taken to a hospital with minor injuries.

The vehicle is still underwater, and authorities are planning its removal. The Portland Police Bureau has stated this is not classified as a pursuit. The crash investigation is ongoing.

Key Details of the Incident

• Date and Time: April 6, around 2 a.m.
• Location: Naito Parkway, Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Willamette River, Portland, OR
• Vehicle: White 1996 Toyota Corolla
• Occupants: Four young men, ages 17, 17, 19, 20
• Fatalities: Two recovered, Trent Badillo, 17, unidentified 19-year-old
• Missing: One, 20-year-old
• Injuries: One survivor with minor injuries
• Agencies Involved: Portland Police Bureau, Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, Portland Fire & Rescue

Why Do River Plunges and Wrong-Way Crashes Occur?

High-speed driving, fleeing law enforcement, and poor visibility contribute to such tragedies. According to the Federal Highway Administration, wrong-way driving incidents have increased, often linked to impairment or distraction.

For a broader context on motor vehicle safety, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 40,000 people die annually in U.S. traffic crashes, with young drivers at higher risk.

Legal Insights on Crashes Involving Submersion and High Speeds

National legal analysts emphasize the need for thorough investigations in motor vehicle incidents like this to determine causes and support affected families.

“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 highlighted that independent investigations are essential to preserve evidence in cases such as this.

“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,” added Bond.

• Key Takeaways: Preserve evidence promptly to build strong cases.
• Insurance Review: Check coverage for potential claims related to loss or injury.
• Witness Location: Essential for reconstructing circumstances accurately.
• Family Support: Legal guidance helps navigate emotional and financial challenges.

Pending results, families may pursue wrongful death claims for companionship loss, pain, suffering, and distress.

"The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.

"We understand just what families are forced to go through, and protecting their rights is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected," Formica continued.

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