PRINEVILLE, Ore. — A dirt bike collision near Prineville on Saturday night resulted in the death of a 15-year-old boy and left another teen critically injured.
The crash occurred at approximately 9:23 p.m. on SE Indian Lane in the Juniper Canyon area, according to the Crook County Sheriff’s Office. The two teenage boys were riding dirt bikes when they collided and came to rest in the roadway.
Despite life-saving measures, the 15-year-old boy, identified as Tyler, died at the scene. The second teen, Trent, was airlifted to St. Charles Hospital in Bend for critical injuries.
A candlelight vigil was held Monday evening at Crook County High School, with dozens of community members in attendance. Tyler’s aunt, Tonya Robinson, expressed gratitude for the community’s support, stating, “It just shows how amazing Crook County is.”
Tyler’s cousin, Blake Ridgway, shared his grief, recalling the strong bond he had with Tyler.
The sheriff’s office is actively investigating the incident, and officials indicate alcohol was not a contributing factor. The vehicles involved were identified as dirt bikes, although some reports referred to them as motorcycles.
Authorities have yet to release further details, and the investigation remains ongoing.