Pedestrian Killed on I-5 near Cottage Grove, March 19

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into Tuesday night’s fatal pedestrian crash on I-5 near milepost 174.5 (southbound) in Lane County near Cottage Grove. On March 17, at approximately 9:00 p.m., OSP troopers were dispatched to a report of a pedestrian walking on the shoulder and also in the right lane of travel on I-5 southbound near milepost 174.5, nearly being struck by passing vehicles. As troopers responded to the scene additional callers reported what appeared to be a person lying on the shoulder. Upon arrival troopers discovered ERIC A. BOLDT, 42, of Eugene and with ties to Idaho, deceased on the highway shoulder. BOLDT was wearing a multicolored pullover and carrying a large digital camouflage backpack. One caller reported he may have had a mid-sized dog walking with him as well which has not been confirmed. Troopers believe BOLDT may have been struck by a large or commercial type vehicle which may not have been aware of the crash. Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or have information pertaining to this crash is asked to contact Oregon State Police Collision Reconstructionist Sr. Trooper Blaine Hlebechuk at 541-726-2536 or by calling the Northern Command Center (NCC) at 800-243-7865.