Oakridge, OR (May 19, 2025) – A devastating rollover crash involving an Oakridge Fire & EMS ambulance critically injured one emergency responder and temporarily disrupted emergency services for the small Oregon community. The crash occurred shortly before 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, along Highway 58 near milepost 30, as the crew was returning from a patient transport.
At the time of the crash, no patient was on board. Three Oakridge responders were inside the ambulance when it rolled, triggering a rapid mutual aid response from surrounding districts. Emergency medics from Eugene Springfield Fire responded to the scene, providing immediate care and transport for all three injured personnel.
One responder was listed in critical but stable condition, while the other two suffered minor injuries and were treated at a nearby hospital. Oakridge Fire & EMS confirmed that this incident has deeply affected both the department and the wider Oakridge community.
As a result of the crash, Oakridge Fire & EMS—already operating with limited resources and a largely volunteer force—has temporarily suspended its ambulance services. Eugene Springfield Fire will be covering calls for the area until further notice.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and officials have not yet released additional details regarding what led to the rollover.
We extend our sincerest support to the injured responders and the entire Oakridge Fire & EMS family during this difficult time.
Emergency Responder Accidents in Rural Oregon
Ambulance crashes are rare but serious events—particularly in rural communities like Oakridge, where staffing is limited and emergency coverage is often stretched thin. Saturday’s rollover incident on Highway 58 near milepost 30 is a powerful reminder of the risks first responders face not only at emergency scenes but while simply traveling between calls.
In rural areas, where long transport routes and winding roads are common, emergency vehicles often traverse challenging terrain at high speeds. The narrow and often mountainous stretches of Highway 58 have been the site of multiple serious crashes, especially in areas with reduced visibility or tight curves. When vehicles like ambulances are involved in rollovers, the consequences can be severe due to their height, weight distribution, and the nature of their cargo and equipment.
The emotional and operational impact of this crash on the Oakridge Fire & EMS department cannot be overstated. With only three full-time staff and heavy reliance on volunteers, the department’s capacity to respond to emergencies has been temporarily reduced, highlighting the fragility of emergency infrastructure in many small towns.
As the department recovers, neighboring agencies like Eugene Springfield Fire have stepped in to maintain ambulance coverage, demonstrating the importance of regional cooperation in rural emergency response networks.
Community support will be crucial as Oakridge Fire & EMS rebuilds its capabilities and supports its injured personnel. If you or someone you know relies on emergency services in the Oakridge area, be aware that temporary changes may affect response times and service availability.
At Local Accident Reports, we stand with first responders and their communities. We provide real-time updates and connect victims and departments with the resources they need in the wake of serious incidents. Contact us to learn more about how we can support you or your organization during recovery.
