BEND, Ore. – A Bend man was arrested Friday night on charges of DUII, hit-and-run, and several other offenses after striking two pedestrians in a crosswalk on SW Century Drive, leaving one critically injured.
According to Bend Police, officers were called to the scene near Cascade West Grub & Alehouse just after 8 p.m. on Friday evening. Authorities received a report that two individuals had been hit by a car while crossing the street, and the driver had fled the scene.
Upon arriving, police found two injured men, ages 37 and 35. The victims, both from Bend, were immediately transported to St. Charles Bend by Bend Fire & Rescue medics. One of the victims suffered life-threatening injuries, authorities said.
While officers were investigating, a 35-year-old Bend man approached the scene and admitted to being the driver responsible for the crash. The suspect told police his vehicle was parked nearby on NW Davenport Avenue.
The man was arrested and booked into the Deschutes County Jail, facing multiple charges, including DUII, hit-and-run, two counts of reckless endangering, second-degree assault, and fourth-degree assault. Jail records show that the suspect was being held without bail as of Saturday, pending his arraignment on formal charges.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities noted that additional charges may be filed as more information becomes available.
In response to the incident, the Bend Police crash reconstruction team was called to the scene, and Century Drive was closed between Albany and Simpson Avenue for several hours as they conducted their investigation. The road was reopened around 10:30 p.m.
Police Communications Manager Sheila Miller reminded the public that state law requires drivers involved in accidents to stop, remain at the scene, and provide aid when necessary. The suspect’s decision to flee the scene of the crash has further complicated the legal ramifications of this case.
As the investigation continues, both victims remain in medical care, with the condition of the injured pedestrian still unclear. Authorities have urged anyone with further information to come forward as they work to piece together the details surrounding the crash.
