Portland, OR (September 17, 2025) – A serious crash at the intersection of SE 164th Ave and SE Powell Blvd left multiple people injured Monday afternoon in the Centennial Community Association area. The collision occurred around 2:05 p.m., bringing afternoon traffic to a standstill and prompting a significant emergency response.
According to witness reports, the crash involved at least two vehicles and resulted in several individuals sustaining injuries. Those on the scene described a jarring impact and immediate concern for drivers and passengers. Paramedics from Portland Fire and Rescue quickly arrived and began providing medical treatment. At least one person was transported to a nearby hospital for additional care, while others were evaluated at the scene.
Officers temporarily closed lanes near the intersection to secure the area and allow crews to clear vehicle debris and hazardous materials. Traffic delays lasted into the early afternoon as investigators worked to document the crash site.
Officials have not yet confirmed the cause of the crash, though factors such as distracted driving, lane misjudgment, or failure to yield are under review. No citations have been issued as the investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not released the names of those involved.
We extend our well wishes to everyone affected by this incident and hope for a smooth recovery for the injured.
Intersection Crashes in Oregon
The crash at SE 164th Ave and SE Powell Blvd reflects a broader concern shared by many communities in Portland: the dangers posed by increasingly busy intersections in mixed-use neighborhoods. Centennial, a fast-growing area with both residential and commercial activity, often experiences congestion on key corridors like Powell Blvd—especially during daytime hours.
Intersections are among the most common locations for traffic collisions, and in Oregon, they account for a significant portion of all injury-related crashes. When vehicles attempt to navigate turn lanes, pedestrian crossings, and timing signals all at once, the margin for error narrows. Add distractions like phone use or aggressive driving, and the results can be devastating.
For victims, the effects go beyond the physical injuries. They may be left dealing with insurance complications, unexpected medical expenses, or lingering trauma from the event. Support from emergency services—like the timely care provided Monday—can reduce some of the immediate harm, but recovery is often a long and complex journey.
This collision also serves as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices in high-traffic zones. Defensive driving, attentiveness at signals, and yielding appropriately are all actions that can reduce the risk of intersection crashes, particularly in busy areas like SE Powell Blvd.
If you or someone close to you was hurt in a crash like the one in Centennial, understanding what to do next is critical. From medical care to navigating recovery resources, you don’t have to handle it alone.
After a serious crash, the next steps can feel uncertain. At Local Accident Reports, we connect injured Oregonians with trusted support services—from local care to guidance on what comes next. Let us help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Get started on your recovery journey today.