Portland, OR (August 15, 2025) – Emergency crews responded to a serious crash involving a vehicle and a MAX light rail train on Wednesday morning that left one passenger injured. The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. on August 13 at the intersection of E Burnside St and 102nd Ave in East Portland.
According to Portland Fire & Rescue, first responders arrived on scene shortly after receiving reports of the crash. They discovered that a passenger onboard the MAX train had sustained injuries as a result of the collision. Emergency medical personnel immediately began assessing and treating the injured individual, although the extent of the injuries has not been publicly disclosed.
Photos released from the scene show responders working near the light rail train, with one train car stopped at the intersection. At this time, no additional injuries were reported, and it remains unclear whether the vehicle driver involved in the crash was hurt.
The exact cause of the collision remains under investigation, and authorities have not confirmed whether any citations have been issued. Traffic in the area was temporarily disrupted as emergency crews worked to secure the site and assist the injured passenger.
We extend our thoughts to the individual who was hurt in this crash and hope for a swift and full recovery.
Train Accidents in Oregon
Transit-related collisions, including those involving light rail systems like Portland’s MAX trains, pose unique dangers that can lead to serious injuries for passengers, pedestrians, and drivers alike. While rare, when these crashes do occur, the impact can be significant—both physically and operationally—given the weight and speed of rail vehicles.
The incident at E Burnside St and 102nd Ave highlights how even within urban, well-regulated transit zones, accidents between cars and trains remain a threat. Portland’s MAX system intersects with numerous streets throughout the city, which presents regular crossing points where vehicle operators must yield to oncoming trains. Failure to observe signals, distractions behind the wheel, or misjudgment of train speeds are common contributing factors in these types of collisions.
For train passengers, the abrupt force of a collision—even at lower speeds—can result in a variety of injuries, including trauma from being thrown inside the train or struck by unsecured items. Injuries may range from minor to severe, particularly for those standing at the time of impact. In this case, responders were able to reach the injured passenger quickly, which can make a meaningful difference in the outcome.
Oregon’s transit agencies work closely with emergency services to maintain safety and conduct thorough investigations after such incidents. However, for injured passengers, the path to recovery often includes navigating not only medical treatment but also questions of accountability and support.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a train or transit-related accident, you may be entitled to support. At Local Accident Reports, we help connect victims and their families with the information, resources, and guidance they need to understand their rights and take action. Contact us today to find out how we can help you move forward after a serious accident.
