Single-vehicle crash near Grants Pass claims life of young passenger Monday morning
Josephine County, Oregon — Authorities with the Oregon State Police (OSP) are investigating a devastating single-vehicle accident that occurred early Monday morning, November 3, 2025, along Highway 238 near milepost 8, just outside of Grants Pass. The crash, which happened shortly before 5:00 a.m., left one person deceased and another injured after a Subaru Impreza veered off the road, struck a power pole, and burst into flames.
According to the preliminary investigation by Oregon State Police, the vehicle involved—a blue 2017 Subaru Impreza—was traveling westbound on Highway 238 when the driver, 21-year-old Alexander Ray Yager, of Grants Pass, lost control while attempting to navigate a curve. The vehicle left the roadway, collided with a utility pole, and rolled multiple times before coming to rest on its roof. Moments later, the vehicle caught fire.
Alexander Yager, the driver, managed to escape the burning vehicle and was later transported by AMR paramedics to Asante Three Rivers Medical Center in Grants Pass for treatment of minor injuries, including lacerations and bruises. Despite being able to free himself, he was unable to assist his passenger, who remained trapped inside the car as the fire spread.
Tragically, the passenger—identified by officials as 20-year-old Emma Leigh Patterson, also of Grants Pass—was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities confirmed that Patterson was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash but was unable to exit the vehicle before it became engulfed in flames. The Josephine County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene and took custody of the victim.
Emergency responders from Rural Metro Fire, Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) assisted at the scene. Firefighters worked swiftly to extinguish the flames and secure the crash area, while deputies diverted traffic for several hours. The roadway remained partially closed until late morning as investigators examined the wreckage and utility crews repaired the damaged power pole.
Authorities have stated that speed and inattention are believed to be contributing factors in the crash. No evidence of impairment was observed at the scene, though toxicology tests are pending as part of the standard investigative process.
The loss of Emma Patterson has deeply affected the Grants Pass community, where she was known as a bright and compassionate young woman with a passion for outdoor activities and volunteer work. Friends describe her as kind-hearted and ambitious, with plans to attend Southern Oregon University next year to study environmental science.
Alexander Yager, who survived the crash, remains under observation and has been cooperating with investigators. Family members released a brief statement expressing their sorrow and asking for privacy during this difficult time. “Emma was loved beyond measure,” one family member said. “Her light touched everyone she met. Our hearts are broken.”
The Oregon State Police Crash Reconstruction Unit is leading the ongoing investigation, analyzing skid marks, vehicle data, and roadway conditions to determine the precise cause of the accident. OSP has urged drivers to use extra caution along Highway 238, which is known for its sharp curves and limited visibility in the early morning hours, especially when roadways are damp.
This tragic event marks one of several serious accidents in Josephine County this year involving young drivers. Local authorities continue to emphasize the importance of driving attentively and within posted speed limits, particularly on rural Oregon highways where sudden turns and narrow lanes can be hazardous.
As the investigation continues, the community of Grants Pass mourns the loss of Emma Leigh Patterson, whose memory will be honored through a candlelight vigil organized by friends and classmates later this week. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Stephens Family Chapel in Grants Pass, with services expected to be announced soon.
The Oregon State Police extend their condolences to the Patterson family and remind motorists to remain vigilant behind the wheel to prevent further tragedies like this one.