Michael O’Brien dies in fatal Camas car crash
Fatal Camas car crash death of Michael O’Brien – Obituary
Eighteen-year-old Michael O’Brien of Portland, Oregon, was killed in a head-on collision caused by a wrong-way driver on State Route 14 late Monday night near exit 14 in Camas, Washington.
According to Washington State Patrol, the crash happened shortly before 11 p.m. when a Mercedes traveling in the wrong direction slammed into another vehicle, resulting in Michael’s death and leaving two other Roosevelt High School seniors, Jack Craig and Will Rinehart, with serious injuries. The two survivors are reportedly in stable condition.
Michael, also known as “Mico” to loved ones, was a senior at Roosevelt High and just days away from graduating. His school principal confirmed the loss in a message to the school community.
Ayden Unruh, who witnessed the crash, said he noticed the wrong-way Mercedes and followed it from the other side of the median, flashing hazard lights and honking to alert others. Despite making a 911 call, he was told no troopers were immediately available to intervene. A trooper arrived on the scene shortly after the crash.
The wrong-way driver, identified as 23-year-old Erik Moya of Vancouver, is suspected of being under the influence. He was arrested and faces charges of vehicular homicide and two counts of vehicular assault.
Michael’s grandfather, Norman, described him as a gentle and kind young man who brought light to those around him. He said the family is devastated by the loss.
A fundraising campaign has been launched to assist the O’Brien family with funeral and memorial costs.
