UPDATE #2: Motorcyclist Killed in June 18 Crash Identified

The preliminary investigation revealed this crash occurred during a time of heavy traffic congestion where traffic was moving between 20-30 miles per hour. During this time, a red 2009 Hyundai Elantra sedan making a lane change from the left lane to the middle lane. At that moment, a black 2015 Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle was lane-splitting between the lanes at a speed significantly faster than the pace of traffic. The motorcyclist hit the sedan and then hit the rear driver side corner of a tractor trailer in the middle lane. Speed and unlawful motorcycle passing (ORS 814.240) are believed to be factors in the crash.

The rider was identified as Shea V. Heintz, 21, of Battleground, Washington. His family has been notified of his death.

No arrests made or citations have been issued at this point. If anyone has information about the crash and has not already spoken to police, please submit a tip on our online portal. Submit a Tip The case number is 26-177125.

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***Original Message Below***

Traffic #ALERT: Crash Involving Motorcyclist on I-5 Northbound, Freeway Closed for Major Crash Team Investigation

Northbound Interstate-5 is closed at Northeast Lombard Street for a Major Crash Team investigation of a collision involving a motorcycle and a vehicle. One fatality has been reported.

The Major Crash Team has wrapped up its on-scene investigation and is reopening the freeway as of 10:30 p.m.

However, the investigation remains ongoing. If anyone has information about the crash and has not already spoken to police, please submit a tip on our online portal. Submit a Tip The case number is .

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***Original Message Below***

Crash Involving Motorcyclist on I-5 Northbound, Freeway Closed for Major Crash Team Investigation

Northbound Interstate-5 is closed at North Lombard Street for a Major Crash Team investigation of a collision involving a motorcycle and a vehicle. One fatality has been reported.

On Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 5:01 p.m., Portland Police Officers assigned to North Precinct responded to a report of a crash on northbound I-5 at North Columbia Boulevard. When officers arrived they found a crash involving a motorcyclist and a driver. Lifesaving measures were attempted by community members. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived and evaluated the rider, but determined that the motorcyclist was deceased.

The involved driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. No additional injuries were reported.

The Portland Police Traffic Division Major Crash Team is responding to the scene to investigate the crash. During the investigation, I-5 northbound is closed between North Lombard Street and North Columbia Boulevard. The closure is likely to last multiple hours. Northbound traffic is being diverted onto North Lombard Street during the closure.

If anyone has information about the crash and has not already spoken to police, please submit a tip on our online portal. Submit a Tip The case number is .

The PIO is not responding to the scene. Additional information will be released when appropriate.

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