TUALATIN, Ore. — A Sherwood High School junior was struck and killed late Monday night in Tualatin, police said.
The crash happened at 11:02 p.m. on Southwest Pacific Highway (99W) near Southwest Cipole Road. Police said they believe the teen may have intentionally stepped in front of the vehicle. He was taken to a local hospital, where he died from his injuries.
In a letter to Sherwood High School parents, principal Ken Bell identified the student as Stephen Ventura, a junior at the school.
"Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the family and anyone affected by this tragic loss," Bell wrote in the letter.
The driver was the first caller to 911 to report the incident. He remained at the location and cooperated with police. Sgt. Nate Cooper of the Tualatin Police Department said the driver won't be charged.
Neither speed nor alcohol appeared to be a factor in the crash, police said.
Sherwood School District Superintendent Heather Cordie said the district is providing counseling and support to students and staff at the high school. Counselors are in place at schools across the district as well, she said.
"Tragedies such as this have a great impact on all of us — students, staff, and community — and our priority at this time is to provide support and resources to all those impacted by this loss," Cordie said in a letter to parents.
The following resources are available to students and staff who need support outside of school hours:
- STUDENTS: Oregon YouthLine (free, confidential helpline for teens): oregonyouthline.org / 877-968-8491
- STAFF: Employee Assistance Program (counseling and resources for SSD staff): 1-866-750-1327 / www.myRBG.com - Access code: OEBB
- ALL: Washington County Crisis Line: 503-291-9111
Resources
Help is available for community members struggling from a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts. Suicide is preventable.
The Multnomah County Mental Health Call Center is available 24 hours a day at 503-988-4888.
If you or someone you know needs help with suicidal thoughts or is otherwise in an immediate mental health crisis, please visit Cascadia or call 503-963-2575. Cascadia Behavioral Healthcare has an urgent walk-in clinic, open from 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., 7 days a week. Payment is not necessary.
Lines for Life is also available 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Information about the Portland Police Bureau's Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) and additional resources can be found by visiting http://portlandoregon.gov/police/bhu
