A quiet Sunday morning turned tragic when 24-year-old Jose Vicente Sanchez of Umatilla lost his life in a head-on collision on U.S. Route 395 near milepost 3, just outside Hermiston, Oregon. According to the Oregon State Police (OSP), the crash occurred around 9:24 a.m. on November 2, 2025, when a southbound Volkswagen Passat crossed into the northbound lane and struck a Nissan 370 that was carrying Jose as a passenger.
Jose was riding in the Nissan driven by 25-year-old Hadasa Esther Sanchez of Umatilla when the collision happened. Hadasa suffered serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. Also hospitalized was 24-year-old Tyler John Garrett of Hermiston, who was driving the Volkswagen and was reported to have sustained critical injuries. Jose was pronounced dead at the scene.
Friends and family knew Jose as a joyful, generous soul whose warm smile and caring nature left an impression on his community. He was described as deeply loyal to those he loved, someone whose laughter could brighten a room and whose presence brought comfort and kindness. The news of his death has sent ripples through Umatilla, where he was a beloved son, brother, and friend.
Residents of Umatilla and nearby Hermiston gathered in shock and sorrow, coming together to console one another in the face of such a sudden loss. The accident site remained closed for about five hours as emergency crews and investigators worked the scene and the crash was placed under further review by OSP’s Collision Reconstruction Unit.
Though the investigation continues, authorities say they have not yet determined why the Volkswagen crossed into the northbound lane. OSP, along with the Hermiston Police Department, Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office and Umatilla County Fire District 1, responded to the crash.
In the wake of this tragedy, loved ones are clinging to memories of Jose’s bright spirit and the impact he made in his community. The pain of his absence is palpable, yet those closest to him find solace in recalling his generosity and the simple way he made others feel seen and cared for.
A celebration of his life is being planned by his family, friends and community supporters, who aim to honor not just the loss, but the legacy of the young man whose future seemed full of promise. Though his time here was far too brief, the love he shared and the kindness he embodied will not be forgotten.
May Jose Sanchez rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength and comfort in each other and in the lasting imprint of his vibrant life.