La Grande, OR – A 27-year-old La Grande man is dead following a UTV crash late Saturday night at the Mt. Emily Recreation Area in Union County.
According to the Union County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and medical crews were dispatched around 10 p.m. on September 20 after reports of an accident off the 201 Mainline trail near the MERA parking lot. Due to the remote location, Union County Search and Rescue also responded.
Investigators said the victim was operating a UTV when he lost control, causing the vehicle to roll on top of him. Friends riding in a separate UTV called 911 and attempted CPR. Despite those efforts, the driver, identified as Jason Hicks of La Grande, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that alcohol was a contributing factor in the crash. Crews from La Grande Fire Department, Island City Fire Department, and Oregon State Police also assisted in the response.
Authorities continue to remind riders to use caution and avoid impaired driving when operating off-road vehicles.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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