SALEM, Ore. — A tragic crash on Silverton Road NE claimed the life of a pedestrian on the night of June 8, 2025. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 52-year-old Michael Martinez of Salem was struck and killed in the 6000 block of Silverton Road shortly before 10:00 p.m.
Emergency services responded quickly to several 911 calls reporting that a person had been hit by a vehicle. When deputies and medics arrived at the scene, they found Martinez with severe injuries. Despite lifesaving efforts, he was pronounced dead on site. The road was immediately shut down as the Marion County CRASH Team launched a full investigation.
Silverton Road remained closed for about three and a half hours while investigators collected evidence and worked to reconstruct the sequence of events that led to the fatal collision. According to authorities, the driver involved in the crash is a 58-year-old woman who remained at the scene and cooperated fully with law enforcement. Officials say she has not been cited or arrested at this time, and impairment is not suspected.
While the cause of the crash is still under investigation, officials are reviewing all possible contributing factors, including lighting conditions, road layout, and visibility. The Sheriff’s Office has not yet released details about how the collision occurred or whether Martinez was in a marked crosswalk or walking along the road.
Michael Martinez’s sudden death has left family, friends, and members of the Salem community heartbroken. As loved ones mourn his loss, they hope for answers and justice as investigators work through the details of the case.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information is urged to contact the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. As the investigation continues, local authorities remind drivers and pedestrians alike to remain vigilant, especially during nighttime hours when visibility is reduced.
