Salem, OR. — Official Release: Just after 1:00 p.m. on 1/22/2025, Salem Police and other emergency personnel responded to the intersection of Union and High STS NE on the report of a pedestrian struck by a Cherriots bus.
The preliminary investigation by the Salem Police Traffic Team indicates the driver of the transit bus was traveling westbound on Union ST and initiated a right-hand turn onto northbound High ST, striking a pedestrian in the crosswalk on the northeast corner of the intersection.
The bus driver brought the bus to a stop a short distance away from the intersection. The driver and occupants of the bus attempted to render aid to the pedestrian; however, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The pedestrian is identified as Joseph Eugene Chandler, age 68, of Salem.
The Cherriots bus driver, John Paul Valdez, age 63, of Albany, remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation.
The Traffic Team investigation continues, and as such, no citations have been issued or arrest made.
Through traffic in the area was closed for approximately two hours for the investigation.
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Prayers for Mr. Valdez, this is a drivers worst nightmare.