Salem, OR (June 9, 2025) – A 52-year-old man was struck and killed by a vehicle Sunday night in northeast Salem, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
The fatal incident occurred just before 10:00 p.m. near the 6000 block of Silverton Rd NE. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following reports of a pedestrian-involved crash. Upon arrival, they located the victim, identified as Michael Martinez of Salem, who was pronounced dead on scene.
Authorities stated that the driver involved in the crash remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation. No arrests or citations have been issued at this time, and investigators from the Marion County CRASH Team are continuing to review evidence and witness statements to determine the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
Silverton Rd NE was closed for approximately three and a half hours while the scene was processed and cleared.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Michael Martinez during this difficult time.
Pedestrian Fatalities in Oregon
Incidents like Sunday night’s pedestrian death on Silverton Rd NE are part of a troubling pattern in Oregon, where pedestrian fatalities continue to rise. Salem, like many growing urban areas in the state, faces challenges when it comes to safely integrating pedestrian traffic with increasing vehicle flow, especially along arterial roadways in suburban or semi-rural neighborhoods.
Silverton Rd NE is a busy corridor with a mix of residential, commercial, and rural access points. Limited street lighting, higher speed limits, and gaps in pedestrian infrastructure such as crosswalks or sidewalks often make safe crossings difficult, particularly at night. According to state data, nighttime collisions account for a disproportionate number of pedestrian deaths, and the absence of reflective clothing or lighting frequently plays a role.
While this investigation is ongoing, authorities have not suggested any impairment or negligence by the driver. However, the tragic result underscores the need for improved road safety measures and greater public awareness—both for drivers and pedestrians. Visibility, reaction time, and shared responsibility are key elements in preventing such deadly events.
Pedestrian fatalities also leave families grappling with sudden grief and legal uncertainty. Survivors often face logistical and emotional burdens as they navigate funeral planning, insurance issues, and complex investigations. In these moments, having the right support system can help bring clarity and direction amid heartbreak.
For those affected by fatal pedestrian crashes, resources are available to assist with both immediate needs and long-term planning. From legal consultation to trauma support, early action can help protect families and ensure fair treatment under Oregon law.
If your family has lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, know that you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone.
Losing someone to a pedestrian crash is devastating. At Local Accident Reports, we provide families with access to trusted support—legal, emotional, and logistical. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and healing. Contact us today to find the guidance and answers you deserve.