Jami Strinz, 46, and Kiley Jones, 19, Tragically Killed in Oregon Softball Team Bus Crash; Eight Others Injured

On the night of Friday, April 18, 2025, a devastating accident in Coos County, Oregon, claimed the lives of two members of the Umpqua Community College (UCC) softball team. Head coach Jami Strinz, 46, and freshman player Kiley Jones, 19, were fatally injured when a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck crossed the center line and collided head-on with their team bus. The team was returning from a game in Coos Bay when the tragic incident occurred.

The Victims

Jami Strinz (46)
Jami Strinz was the head coach of the Umpqua Community College softball team. A passionate and dedicated coach, she was known for her commitment to her players and the sport. Strinz was driving the team bus at the time of the accident and was later declared dead at a hospital. Her loss has left a profound impact on the UCC community.

Kiley Jones (19)
Kiley Jones, a freshman from Nampa, Idaho, played first base for the UCC softball team. She was a promising young athlete with a bright future ahead. Jones was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. Her untimely death has deeply saddened her teammates, coaches, and the entire UCC community.

The Accident

The tragic accident occurred late Friday night in Coos County, Oregon. According to the Oregon State Police, the driver of a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck crossed the center line and collided head-on with the UCC softball team bus. The bus was carrying 10 members of the team, including Coach Strinz and Player Jones. The collision resulted in the deaths of Strinz and Jones, while eight other team members suffered moderate to serious injuries and were hospitalized in Eugene and Portland. The driver of the pickup truck was also seriously injured and taken to an emergency medical center.

Investigation and Suspected Cause

Oregon State Police have indicated that impaired driving is considered a primary cause of the crash. A criminal investigation is currently underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. Both drivers involved in the crash are undergoing standard toxicology tests. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to piece together the details of the tragic event.

Community Response

The Umpqua Community College community has been left reeling from the loss of Coach Strinz and Player Jones. President Rachel Pokrandt expressed profound grief over the loss, emphasizing the impact on the campus community. Governor Tina Kotek of Oregon also shared condolences and support for the grieving community. Memorial services and vigils are being planned to honor the lives of those lost and to support the injured players and their families.

Conclusion

The tragic bus crash in Coos County has left a lasting impact on the Umpqua Community College softball team and the broader community. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the families of the victims and the recovery of the injured players. The legacy of Coach Jami Strinz and Player Kiley Jones will live on in the hearts of those who knew them.

Additional Information

• Date of Incident: April 18, 2025
• Location: Coos County, Oregon
• College: Umpqua Community College
• Team: Softball
• Victims: Jami Strinz (46), Kiley Jones (19)
• Injured: Eight team members hospitalized
• Investigation Status: Ongoing; impaired driving suspected