Catching Slough Crash, March 10

CCSO release – On March 7, 2021, at about 1:56 AM, The Coos County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call which plotted to mile post 1 of Catching Slough Road, in which nothing but screaming could be heard. As the situation developed, it was learned there was a car crash which resulted in the vehicle coming to rest in Catching Slough.
Deputies from the Coos County Sheriff’s Office responded. Upon arrival, a fifteen year old juvenile female was located with some passersby. The vehicle was found hood down in Catching Slough with the passenger compartment submerged. The female was transported by ambulance to Bay Area Hospital. The investigation revealed the female had been a passenger inside of the vehicle operated by 20 year old Tristan Ornbaun along with three other occupants of the vehicle. Another occupant, a male juvenile, was also identified after he was presented for treatment at Bay Area Hospital. Through the course of the investigation, it was learned the vehicle had left the roadway, possibly hydroplaning and came to rest in Catching Slough. Ultimately, the injured female was left on the scene. The driver left the scene but returned a half hour later. None of the other passengers remained on scene. The driver, Tristan Ornbaun was arrested for Assault II, Assault III, Fail to Perform Duties of a Driver with Injured Persons, Reckless Driving, and Recklessly Endangering Another (2 counts). The other juvenile male was treated for minor injuries. The injured female was flown by Reach Air Ambulance to Portland due to sustaining serious physical injury. All of the occupants of the vehicle were believed to be underage and returning home after having attended an underage drinking party in the Sumner area. The matter remains under investigation. Speed and alcohol are believed to be a factor. If anyone has any information regarding this crash please contact the Coos County Sheriff’s Office at 541-3967800. The Coos County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Coos Bay Police Department, Millington Fire Department and Bay Cities Ambulance.