Pedestrian Killed in Southeast Portland Crash Identified as 50-Year-Old Willie Talimao Jr.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Pedestrian Killed in Southeast Portland Crash Identified as 50-Year-Old Willie Talimao Jr.

Authorities in Portland have identified the pedestrian who tragically lost his life in a crash that occurred on Sunday night in Southeast Portland. The deceased has been named as 50-year-old Willie Talimao Jr., a local resident whose sudden death has left family, friends, and community members mourning.

The incident took place late Sunday evening, when officers from the Portland Police Bureau were called to the scene of a serious collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian. The crash happened in the area of Southeast Powell Boulevard, a busy corridor that has been the site of numerous traffic-related incidents over the years.

Upon arrival, emergency personnel found Talimao lying unresponsive in the roadway. Despite immediate efforts by first responders to provide medical assistance, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver involved in the crash remained on-site and cooperated with authorities throughout the initial stages of the investigation. Police have not reported any signs of impairment or reckless behavior from the driver at this time, but the crash remains under active investigation by the Portland Police Bureau’s Traffic Investigations Unit.

The exact circumstances leading up to the collision are still being pieced together. Investigators are working to determine whether visibility, speed, weather conditions, or pedestrian right-of-way laws may have been contributing factors. Authorities have also appealed to the public for any additional witnesses or surveillance footage from the surrounding area that may help clarify what led to the fatal crash.

In the aftermath of the incident, Southeast Powell Boulevard was temporarily closed between several intersections to allow investigators to survey the scene, collect evidence, and conduct a thorough reconstruction. The road was reopened several hours later.

Willie Talimao Jr.’s death marks yet another heartbreaking statistic in Portland’s ongoing struggle with pedestrian safety. As urban traffic increases and the city continues to grapple with aging infrastructure and safety concerns, advocates for safer streets are once again calling for comprehensive action.

Community organizations and Vision Zero advocates have renewed their appeals for enhanced pedestrian protections—such as better lighting, speed reduction zones, improved crosswalks, and greater enforcement of traffic laws—particularly in high-traffic corridors like Southeast Powell Boulevard.

Family members of Talimao have not yet released a public statement, but loved ones have begun to share tributes online, remembering him as a kind-hearted, generous man who was known for his strong community ties and warm spirit. A memorial has been set up near the site of the crash, where flowers, candles, and handwritten notes are being left by those wishing to pay their respects.

Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact Portland police. The case number and details for submitting tips can be found on the Portland Police Bureau’s official website.