COQUILLE, Ore. — A serious and tragic accident involving a community college softball team occurred recently, resulting in the deaths of a player and a coach. Oregon authorities have since arrested 32-year-old Jonathan Dowdy, accusing him of causing the fatal accident.
Currently held at the Coos County Jail, Dowdy faces multiple charges, including manslaughter, reckless endangerment, and driving under the influence. At this time, he does not have a defense attorney who can provide commentary on his case. The jail confirmed that Dowdy is yet to appear in court for an initial hearing, where legal representation would typically be assigned.
The accident, which remains under active investigation by state police, involved Dowdy’s pickup truck colliding with a bus carrying the Umpqua Community College softball team. The incident occurred when Dowdy reportedly veered across the center line on Friday.
Tragically, the crash claimed the life of Jami Strinz, 46, who served as the head coach for the softball team. She succumbed to her injuries in a hospital. Kiley Jones, a 19-year-old freshman from Nampa, Idaho, was declared dead at the crash site; she played first base for the team. The team had been traveling from a game in Coos Bay, according to the college.
President of the college, Rachel Pokrandt, expressed deep sorrow following the loss, stating, “We are heartbroken to confirm the passing of both Kiley Jones and Coach Jami Strinz. They were beloved figures within our community, an outstanding student-athlete and an enthusiastic and skillful coach. The campus mourns this devastating loss, and our thoughts are with their families, teammates, and all who knew them.”
In addition to the deceased, eight other passengers on the bus sustained moderate to serious injuries, receiving urgent medical attention. Several were taken to hospitals in Eugene and Portland for further treatment. The school has not provided an update on their current medical status.
Dowdy himself sustained injuries during the crash and was hospitalized for treatment, as reported by state police.
Governor of Oregon, Tina Kotek, conveyed her condolences through a statement on social media, expressing her sympathy for the affected school community and families involved in the unfortunate incident. “Oregon stands with you in your pain and sorrow,” she assured them.