Dirt Bike Rider Fatally Injured, Teen Hurt In Oregon Dunes Crash Near Railroad Hill

A 35-year-old dirt bike rider died and a 13-year-old rider was seriously injured Sunday evening after a crash involving two dirt bikes and a side-by-side in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

According to the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, deputies, Hauser Fire Department, Bay Cities Ambulance and the U.S. Coast Guard responded at 5:01 p.m. on May 24 to the crash near Railroad Hill.

When a deputy arrived, emergency responders assessed the injuries and requested a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter from Air Station North Bend to airlift the 35-year-old man for trauma care. The Coast Guard hoisted the man and flew him to Bay Area Hospital, but officials said he later died from his injuries.

The second dirt bike rider, a 13-year-old boy, suffered multiple broken bones. Hauser Fire Department and Bay Cities Ambulance took him to Bay Area Hospital. Due to the severity of his injuries, Bay Cities Ambulance later transported him to Portland for pediatric medical care.

Investigators said both dirt bike riders were wearing proper riding gear, helmets and flags. The side-by-side also had the required safety equipment and a flag.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the side-by-side was traveling south near Railroad Hill while the two dirt bike riders were traveling north. The operator of the side-by-side saw the dirt bikes and came to a complete stop before the crash. Investigators said the dirt bike riders did not see the side-by-side and jumped the dune.

One rider landed on top of the side-by-side, while the other attempted to brake but was unable to stop and collided head-on with the stationary vehicle.

The Sheriff’s Office said speed and jumping without a spotter were contributing factors in the crash.

Officials reminded riders of quads, dirt bikes and side-by-sides that jumping without a spotter is unsafe and a violation. Riders are urged to always use a spotter and make sure the landing area is clear before jumping.

“During this difficult time, the Sheriff’s Office sends its condolences to all parties involved,” the agency said.