Portland police investigate serious crash into utility pole, closing SW Capitol Highway Sunday night
Major Crash Team called to Ashcreek-Crestwood collision site
Portland police are investigating a serious collision that left two people hospitalized Sunday night and prompted a closure of Southwest Capitol Highway in Southwest Portland.
Officers responded at 8:09 p.m. on February 8, 2026, to a reported crash at Southwest Capitol Highway and Southwest Brugger Street. Police said a vehicle struck a utility pole in the Ashcreek-Crestwood neighborhood. The driver and a front-seat passenger were taken by ambulance to a local hospital.
Police said the driver suffered serious injuries. The passenger’s injuries were described as believed to be life-threatening.
Emergency aid provided before paramedics arrived
Police said an off-duty firefighter with Portland Fire Bureau and an off-duty nurse stopped at the scene and provided emergency medical assistance to the vehicle’s occupants until paramedics arrived.
Road closure and investigation area
The Portland Police Bureau’s Traffic Division Major Crash Team responded to investigate. During the investigation, Southwest Capitol Highway was closed between Southwest Brugger Street and Southwest Marigold Street.
- Location: Southwest Capitol Highway at Southwest Brugger Street
- Time reported: 8:09 p.m., February 8, 2026
- Impacts: hospital transports for two occupants; roadway closure for crash investigation
What is known and what remains unclear
Police have not released details on what led to the crash, including vehicle speed, whether other vehicles were involved, whether impairment is suspected, or whether weather or road conditions were factors. Identities of the injured people have not been released.
Additional information is expected to be released as the investigation continues.
How to share information
Police are asking anyone who has information about the crash and has not already spoken with investigators to email [email protected], attention TIU, and reference case number 26-38935.