Kiley Jones, Jami Strinz Obituary, Death – A devastating accident in Oregon has claimed the lives of a college softball player and her coach from Umpqua Community College, leaving a community in mourning and others injured. The tragedy occurred Friday night, April 19, as the team was returning from a game in Coos Bay. Their team bus was involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle, according to school officials and the Oregon State Police.
The victims were identified as 19-year-old Kiley Jones, a freshman student-athlete who played first base, and 46-year-old Jami Strinz, the head coach of the UCC softball team. Jones was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, while Strinz was taken to a hospital in critical condition and later succumbed to her injuries.
The crash occurred around 9:56 p.m. as the team bus, driven by Coach Strinz, was traveling on the highway. According to the Oregon State Police, a Chevrolet Silverado driven by 32-year-old Johnathan James Dowdy suddenly crossed the centerline and collided head-on with the team’s vehicle. The impact was severe, causing fatal and serious injuries to multiple people on board.
There were 10 members of the UCC softball team traveling in the bus. In addition to the two fatalities, eight others sustained moderate to serious injuries and were transported to hospitals in Eugene and Portland. Dowdy, the driver of the Silverado, also suffered serious injuries and was taken to a nearby medical facility. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and have not yet released further details.
Umpqua Community College President Dr. Rachel Pokrandt issued a heartfelt statement confirming the tragic news. She expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended sympathies to the families of the victims and the college community. “Kiley Jones and Jami Strinz were beloved members of our UCC family—an exceptional student-athlete and a passionate coach,” Pokrandt said. “Our hearts are breaking. We ask the community to join us in prayer and reflection as we grieve this unimaginable loss.”
Support services have been made available for students, faculty, and staff as the college begins the difficult process of healing. Pokrandt emphasized the importance of privacy for the families of those affected and called for compassion and understanding during this painful time.
Coach Strinz, who had only recently been appointed as the first head coach in the history of the college’s softball program, was known for her dedication and energy. According to the team’s website, she leaves behind her partner, Steve Williams, and their daughter, Sari. Her death has left a profound void in the athletic and campus community.
Kiley Jones, a freshman with a bright future in collegiate softball, had played in 28 games for the team this season. Her teammates and friends remembered her as a committed athlete and a kind-hearted individual who brought joy and spirit to everyone she encountered.
In light of the tragedy, the Umpqua Community College softball team canceled their scheduled doubleheader on Saturday. They are currently planning to resume play the following Friday, though the mood remains somber and reflective.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek expressed her condolences in a public message on social media. “My heart aches for the @umpquacc family reeling from this tragedy,” she wrote. “Oregon is here for you in your grief and loss. You are in my prayers. Many thanks to @ORStatePolice and other emergency responders for their compassionate response.”
The crash is the latest in a series of accidents that have shaken college communities across the country. But for Umpqua Community College, the pain is deeply personal. The school has asked for support and unity as students, faculty, and staff process their loss.
Investigators are continuing to piece together the cause of the crash. The Oregon State Police are handling the case, and no further updates have been provided regarding possible charges or the condition of the Silverado’s driver.
In the days ahead, memorials and tributes are expected as the community honors the lives of Kiley Jones and Jami Strinz. The college has not yet announced any public services but indicated they will inform the community when such plans are finalized.
As the college community grieves, they do so together—remembering the vibrant lives lost too soon, the bonds formed through sport and scholarship, and the strength they will need to carry forward in honor of those who are no longer with them.
