In a recent Crook County Board of Commissioners work session held on May 28, 2025, the atmosphere was somber as officials discussed a tragic incident that occurred just days prior. A fatal car crash on Ramona Avenue, near the Fontana Mill, claimed the life of a passenger and left the driver hospitalized and facing serious charges, including manslaughter and DUI.

The meeting revealed the intense efforts of local law enforcement, with six officers, including members of the Oregon State Police and the Prineville Police Department, responding to the scene. A reconstruction of the crash was conducted, highlighting the complexities and dangers of the area, particularly given the speed limit of 35 mph. Eyewitness reports suggested that the driver was traveling at an excessively high speed, a factor that contributed to the tragic outcome.

In a poignant twist, one of the responding officers, Carrie, had just returned from teaching a class on traffic safety when she was called to the scene of the accident. This irony underscored the harsh realities faced by law enforcement as they navigate the aftermath of such incidents. The investigation was thorough, with search warrants signed late into the night, demonstrating the commitment of the officers involved, who worked tirelessly for over nine hours on the case.

As the meeting progressed, other topics were briefly touched upon, including a report from Commissioner Ben, who shared his experiences from a recent National Association of Counties (NACO) conference in South Dakota. While he appreciated the scenic beauty of the region, he expressed disappointment in the conference's lack of substantive discussions, feeling that much of the information presented was already familiar to him.

The session concluded with a reminder of the upcoming board meeting scheduled for June 11, as the commissioners wrapped up their discussions and prepared to adjourn. The meeting served as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the community and its leaders, as they work to ensure safety and address the pressing issues that affect the lives of Crook County residents.