Tragedy on Oregon Highway Claims Lives of Umpqua Community College Softball Coach and Player
A devastating accident on the night of April 18, 2025, has left the Umpqua Community College (UCC) community in mourning. A head-on collision on Oregon Highway 42 resulted in the deaths of head softball coach Jami Lea Strinz, 46, and freshman player Kiley Nevaeh Jones, 19. The team was returning from a game in Coos Bay when the tragedy occurred .
The Incident
At approximately 10 p.m., a Chevrolet Silverado driven by Johnathan James Dowdy, 32, of Coos Bay, crossed the centerline near milepost 23 and collided head-on with the team’s Chevrolet Express bus. Coach Strinz, who was driving the bus, was critically injured and later pronounced dead at the hospital. Jones, a freshman from Nampa, Idaho, and the team’s first baseman, was declared dead at the scene .
Eight other team members sustained moderate to serious injuries and were transported to hospitals in Eugene and Portland. Dowdy also suffered serious injuries and was taken to an emergency medical center. Oregon State Police have indicated that impaired driving is considered a primary cause of the crash, and a criminal investigation is ongoing .
Remembering the Victims
Coach Strinz was a respected figure in the softball community, having previously coached at institutions such as Portland State and George Fox before joining UCC. She was known for her dedication to the sport and her players. Jones, remembered as a talented and passionate athlete, had a promising future ahead in softball.
UCC President Dr. Rachel Pokrandt expressed the college’s grief, stating, “These individuals were cherished members of our campus—an exceptional student-athlete, and a passionate and talented coach. Our entire community is grieving this tragic loss, and our heartfelt condolences are with their families, teammates, and loved ones” .
Community Response
The accident has sent shockwaves through the UCC community and beyond. Support services have been made available to students, faculty, and staff as they cope with the loss. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek shared her condolences, stating, “Oregon is here for … “ .
As the investigation continues, the UCC community comes together to honor the memories of Coach Strinz and Kiley Jones, reflecting on their contributions and the indelible impact they made on those around them.
