Two drivers have been formally indicted in connection with a hit-and-run collision that claimed the life of a Portland woman in late September.
A Multnomah County grand jury handed down the indictments on Wednesday, Nov. 29, against 39-year-old Julio C. Salazar-Arias and 26-year-old Sergio Cruz. Both men are facing charges of failing to perform the duties of a driver, a serious offense under Oregon law. In addition, Cruz is facing an additional charge of initiating a false report, which suggests an attempt to mislead investigators during the course of the investigation.
The incident occurred on the evening of Sept. 27 near the intersection of East Burnside Street and Northeast 113th Avenue. According to Portland police, 37-year-old Cameron Anne Barton was crossing the street when she was struck by two vehicles in succession. Both drivers reportedly fled the scene without rendering aid or calling for emergency services, leaving Barton fatally injured on the roadway. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The crash, which has drawn widespread attention, highlighted ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety in Portland, where traffic fatalities have risen sharply in recent years. Community members and advocates have since called for enhanced measures to protect pedestrians and hold negligent drivers accountable.
The investigation into the tragic crash took weeks of collaborative effort by law enforcement agencies, including witness interviews, analysis of surveillance footage, and forensic evidence collection. It remains unclear whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the incident or if the drivers were speeding at the time of the crash.
The charges against Salazar-Arias and Cruz mark a significant step in bringing justice to Barton’s grieving family and friends. Legal experts say the charge of failure to perform the duties of a driver could carry severe penalties if the two men are convicted. In Oregon, hit-and-run offenses involving fatal injuries are considered Class B felonies, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and hefty fines.
Cruz’s additional charge of initiating a false report underscores the gravity of attempting to obstruct justice in such cases. Authorities have not disclosed the nature of the false report but have emphasized the importance of truthfulness in ensuring accountability for such incidents.
Cameron Barton’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers faced by pedestrians in urban areas. Friends and family remember her as a kind and compassionate individual whose life was tragically cut short. A memorial with flowers and candles has since been placed near the site of the crash, serving as a somber tribute to her memory.
As the legal process moves forward, the community awaits further details and hopes for a resolution that brings closure to Barton’s loved ones. Police are urging anyone with additional information about the crash or the events leading up to it to contact the Portland Police Bureau.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility all drivers have to remain at the scene of a crash, provide aid if possible, and cooperate fully with law enforcement investigations. It also underscores the broader issue of improving safety for pedestrians in Portland, where city officials continue to grapple with traffic-related fatalities.
