Coos County, OR (February 20, 2026) – One person died on Wednesday morning following a three-vehicle crash on US 101 near milepost 223 in the Lakeside area. The collision occurred at approximately 6:09 a.m. on February 18.
According to reports, a Ford F-150 towing a flatbed trailer was traveling northbound when it hit black ice on the roadway. The driver lost control, struck a guardrail, and crossed into the southbound lane, where the truck collided with a Chevy Tracker.
Moments later, a Dodge pickup traveling behind the Ford also encountered black ice and rear-ended the flatbed trailer. James Ervin Bramhall, 64, of Lakeside, who was driving the Chevy Tracker, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Ford, 30-year-old Matthew Rafael Gonzalez of St. George, Utah, suffered minor injuries. The driver of the Dodge pickup, 24-year-old John Paul Burgmeier of Coos Bay, was not injured. The highway was closed for more than three hours while emergency units worked at the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
How Black Ice Contributes to Serious Highway Crashes
Black ice is a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that forms on road surfaces, often during early morning hours when temperatures drop. It can be difficult for drivers to detect, especially before sunrise. Bridges, shaded curves, and areas near water are more likely to develop icy patches.
When a vehicle hits black ice, tires can lose traction instantly. Drivers may struggle to steer or brake, which can lead to sliding across lanes or off the roadway. Towing a trailer can add extra weight and change how a vehicle responds when traction is lost.
Multi-vehicle crashes often occur in icy conditions because following drivers may also encounter the same slick surface. Slowing down in cold weather, increasing following distance, and avoiding sudden steering or braking can help reduce the risk of losing control on winter roads.
