WALLOWA COUNTY, Ore. — A tragic single-vehicle crash on State Route 3 has claimed the life of a Washington man, according to the Oregon State Police.
Authorities said the accident occurred near milepost 2 on Thursday, September 11, 2025. Troopers were dispatched to the scene around 10:53 a.m. after reports of a vehicle down an embankment.
Driver Identified
The driver was identified as 42-year-old Ryan Jeffrey Bonivert of Clarkston, Washington. Investigators say Bonivert’s Dodge 2500 left the roadway and rolled approximately 500 feet down a steep slope. He was ejected during the crash and pronounced dead at the scene.
Preliminary findings suggest the incident may have happened in the early morning hours, several hours before it was discovered.
Emergency Response
Emergency crews from multiple agencies responded, including the Wallowa County Sheriff’s Office, Enterprise Fire, Joseph Fire and Rescue, and the Oregon Department of Transportation. Officials noted that traffic on State Route 3 was not disrupted while responders worked at the site.
Ongoing Investigation
The Oregon State Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities have not released further details but are urging drivers to use caution when traveling along the rural stretch of highway.
Bonivert’s death marks a sobering reminder of the risks posed by Wallowa County’s rugged terrain and winding roadways.