The Salem Police Traffic Team is investigating a vehicle versus bicycle collision that occurred on February 28, 2026. The bicyclist, Richard Allen Hawkins, 67, of Salem, died on March 14, 2026, due to injuries sustained during the collision.
At approximately 10:22 p.m., patrol officers responded to and investigated a crash on Front Street at Union Street NE. Hawkins was riding an e-bike westbound on Union Street NE when he collided with a vehicle driven by a 21-year-old woman from Salem who was traveling northbound on Front Street NE.
Witnesses told officers the traffic light for northbound Front Street NE was green. The driver called 911, remained on scene, and cooperated with the investigation. Hawkins was transported to the hospital with serious injuries.
The case will be sent to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office, which reviews all investigations involving a loss of life, regardless of whether criminal activity is suspected.
The Salem Police Department has responded to three fatal crashes resulting in three total fatalities in 2026.
For further inquiries, please contact the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.
###
