Erik Moya and Michael O’Brien Die in Horrific Crash on SR-14 [Camas, WA]

Camas, WA (May 28, 2025) – 23-year-old Erik Moya and 18-year-old Michael O’Brien were killed in a tragic crash on SR-14.

According to authorities, the fatal collision happened on State Route 14 near Exit 14.

Reports say that a suspected drunk driver caused a deadly wrong-way crash late Monday night in Camas.

Authorities reported that 23-year-old Erik M. Moya of Vancouver drove a Mercedes westbound in the eastbound lanes, colliding head-on with another vehicle.

The crash killed 18-year-old Michael C. O’Brien of Portland, a Roosevelt High School senior just days from graduation. Two of his classmates, Jack Craig and Will Rinehart, suffered serious injuries but remain in stable condition.

The Washington State Patrol had received multiple 911 calls before the crash. A witness attempted to alert other drivers by trailing the wrong-way vehicle and signaling with his horn and hazard lights. WSP stated that a trooper responded from I-5 shortly after the collision.

Troopers arrested Moya and booked him into Clark County Jail on charges of vehicular homicide and two counts of vehicular assault. He is suspected of driving under the influence.

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Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Michael C. O’Brien during this tragic time. We extend our deepest condolences and wish a full recovery for those injured.

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How Can a Wrongful Death Claim Help?

The loss of a loved one in a fatal traffic accident is a devastating experience for families. In addition to the emotional trauma, the bereaved are often left facing unforeseen financial burdens. When this happens, filing a wrongful death claim can provide vital support, both legally and financially. It is important to understand that a wrongful death claim holds the responsible party accountable and allows the family of the deceased to seek compensation for their loss.

One of the primary reasons to pursue a wrongful death claim following a deadly traffic accident is to recover financial losses, which may include funeral expenses, medical costs for the deceased’s final treatment, and lost wages. If the deceased was the primary earner in the family, the surviving loved ones may struggle to cover day-to-day expenses without the deceased’s income. Compensation from a wrongful death lawsuit can help ease the financial strain caused by this loss.

Additionally, a wrongful death claim serves as a way to hold negligent parties responsible. Whether the crash was caused by a drunk driver, distracted driving, or a defective vehicle, the at-fault party should be held accountable for their actions. The legal process ensures that justice is pursued and can also raise awareness about dangerous behaviors that may have contributed to the collision and prevent similar accidents from happening.

Pursuing a wrongful death claim can offer a sense of closure and justice to grieving families. Yes, no financial compensation can replace the lost life of a loved one, but it can provide families with a sense of resolution, knowing that the responsible party has been held liable for their actions.

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