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Lakeside Today
By the People, for the People
Deadly Crash on Highway 101 in Coos County
Three-vehicle collision near Lakeside kills 64-year-old man
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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On February 18, 2026, a three-vehicle crash on Highway 101 near Lakeside, Oregon resulted in the death of a 64-year-old man. The crash occurred when a northbound Ford F-150 towing a flatbed trailer lost control on black ice, struck a guardrail, crossed into the southbound lane, and collided with a Chevy Tracker driven by the victim. A Dodge 1500 pickup then rear-ended the flatbed trailer due to the icy conditions.
Why it matters
Highway 101 is a major thoroughfare along the Oregon coast, and this fatal crash highlights the dangers of driving in inclement winter weather. The incident raises questions about road maintenance and safety protocols during hazardous conditions.
The details
According to Oregon State Police, the Ford F-150 driven by 30-year-old Matthew Rafael Gonzalez of Utah was northbound when it hit black ice, lost control, struck a guardrail, crossed into the southbound lane, and collided with the Chevy Tracker driven by 64-year-old James Ervin Bramhall of Lakeside. A Dodge 1500 pickup driven by 24-year-old John Paul Burgmeier of Coos Bay then rear-ended the flatbed trailer, also due to the icy conditions. Bramhall was pronounced dead at the scene, while Gonzalez reported minor injuries and Burgmeier was uninjured.
- The crash occurred on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 6:09 a.m.
- The highway was closed for approximately 3.5 hours during the investigation.
The players
Matthew Rafael Gonzalez
A 30-year-old man from St. George, Utah who was driving the northbound Ford F-150 towing a flatbed trailer involved in the crash.
James Ervin Bramhall
A 64-year-old man from Lakeside, Oregon who was driving the southbound Chevy Tracker and was killed in the collision.
John Paul Burgmeier
A 24-year-old man from Coos Bay, Oregon who was driving the Dodge 1500 pickup that rear-ended the flatbed trailer.
Oregon State Police
The law enforcement agency that responded to and investigated the fatal crash.
Lakeside Fire Department, Houser Fire Department, Winchester Bay Fire Department, Lower Umpqua Ambulance, Oregon Department of Transportation
The emergency responders and agencies that assisted at the scene of the crash.
The takeaway
This tragic crash underscores the importance of driving cautiously in winter weather conditions, as black ice can quickly lead to loss of control and devastating collisions. The incident also highlights the need for continued investment in road maintenance and safety measures to protect drivers on major thoroughfares like Highway 101.
