PORTLAND, Ore. — West Burnside Street was closed between Northwest 20th Place and 23rd Avenue due to a fatal crash Thursday evening, according to Portland Police Bureau.
At around 6:11 p.m., police responded to a report of an accident near Northwest 22nd Avenue and West Burnside Street just a few blocks from Providence Park.
A male pedestrian was struck and pronounced dead on scene, according to police. The driver of the vehicle involved remained on scene and is cooperating with police.
PPB's Major Crash Team is headed to the scene for further investigation.
West Burnside Street was closed in both directions between 20th Place and 23rd Avenue for several hours, police told KGW.
Although the accident occurred as sleet was starting to fall, police said it was too early to confirm if weather was a factor.
With an ice storm forecasted to arrive, Portland roads were expected to get very messy starting Thursday evening. The existing high winds and frigid temperatures were forecasted to combine with incoming moisture to produce sleet and freezing rain, which can cause rapid ice accumulation.
The Portland Bureau of Transportation said it plans to use gravel and liquid de-icer on the roads, plus salt in some areas.
Drivers who absolutely have to go out are urged to be prepared with chains and emergency supplies. However, officials at both agencies stressed that the best approach is for drivers to stay off the roads altogether as the ice moves in.
For the latest reports on road closure and conditions in Oregon, visit TripCheck.com.
