Portland, Oregon — Authorities Identify Gerardo Ortiz Henriquez After Fatal Scooter and Tractor-Trailer Collision

Portland, OR — Authorities have confirmed the identity of the man who lost his life in a tragic weekend crash involving a tractor-trailer and two riders sharing a Lime scooter. Officials have identified the victim as 24-year-old Gerardo A. Ortiz Henriquez. The collision occurred early Sunday morning at the intersection of Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Holladay Street.

According to investigators, Ortiz Henriquez was riding as a passenger on the back of the rented scooter when the tragic incident unfolded. The operator of the scooter, whose identity has not yet been released, was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. Emergency responders arrived on scene shortly after 2:45 a.m. following multiple 911 calls from witnesses who observed the devastating collision.

Police stated that when officers arrived at the scene, Ortiz Henriquez was found unresponsive and was pronounced deceased. Medical personnel immediately attended to the scooter operator, who sustained life-threatening injuries and remains under treatment. Authorities have been in contact with the families of those involved as the investigation into the exact circumstances continues.

The preliminary investigation revealed that both riders were not wearing helmets at the time of the crash. Officials emphasized that helmet use can be a critical factor in reducing the severity of head injuries during collisions. Lime, the scooter rental company, provides safety guidance to riders, but investigators said compliance is ultimately dependent on individual users.

In addition to helmet concerns, authorities believe alcohol impairment may have played a role in the crash. Officers indicated that evidence gathered at the scene and statements from witnesses suggest impairment could have influenced the scooter operator’s ability to safely navigate the roadway. Toxicology results are pending as part of the continuing investigation.

The collision also involved a tractor-trailer traveling through the intersection when the scooter reportedly crossed into its path. Investigators have not announced whether charges will be filed, but they noted that the driver of the tractor-trailer remained on the scene and cooperated fully with law enforcement. The driver did not appear to be impaired, according to authorities.

The Portland Police Bureau’s Traffic Division has taken charge of the case and is appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dash camera footage to come forward. Investigators stressed that additional evidence could help clarify how the collision unfolded in the moments leading up to the impact.

Local residents expressed concerns about safety conditions on Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, noting that the intersection at Holladay Street is often busy with both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Community members have long urged for greater visibility, improved lighting, and safety enforcement in the area to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Authorities urged scooter users to prioritize safety when riding, including wearing helmets, avoiding impaired operation, and adhering to traffic rules. They reminded the public that electric scooters, while convenient, require the same caution and responsibility as any motorized vehicle sharing the road with larger traffic.

As the investigation continues, friends and family of Ortiz Henriquez are left mourning the unexpected loss of a young life. The Portland community has joined in expressing condolences while waiting for additional updates from law enforcement. Police confirmed the case remains active as they work to determine the complete circumstances behind this devastating collision.