Carlos Andres Marquez-Vargas Death and Obituary – A tragic motorcycle accident claimed the life of Carlos Andres Marquez-Vargas, a 20-year-old resident of Forest Grove, Oregon, on Monday, October 20, 2025. According to the Hillsboro Police Department, the fatal crash occurred around 10:18 p.m. on westbound Highway 26, between SE Cornelius Pass Road and NW 185th Avenue.
Details of the Incident
Preliminary reports indicate that Marquez-Vargas was riding his motorcycle westbound on Highway 26 when he rear-ended another vehicle. The impact caused him to lose control of the motorcycle, leading to his separation from the bike. Moments later, Marquez-Vargas was struck by two additional westbound vehicles, resulting in fatal injuries.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, but despite their efforts, Marquez-Vargas was pronounced dead at the location of the crash. Investigators have identified speed as a contributing factor, though it remains unclear how fast he or the other vehicles were traveling at the time of impact.
Investigation and Aftermath
All drivers involved in the crash remained at the scene and are cooperating fully with investigators. No arrests or citations have been reported as of now. The Washington County Crash Analysis Reconstruction Team (CART) was called in to assist with the investigation, conducting a detailed reconstruction to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the fatal collision.
Due to the severity of the crash and the investigation process, westbound lanes of Highway 26 were closed for approximately six hours, reopening in the early morning hours of October 21. The extended closure caused significant traffic delays throughout the area, with detours set up by local authorities.
Community Reaction
The death of Carlos Andres Marquez-Vargas has left the Forest Grove community mourning the loss of a young man whose life ended far too soon. Friends and family members have taken to social media to express their grief and share memories of Marquez-Vargas, describing him as kind-hearted, passionate, and full of potential.
Motorcycle enthusiasts in the area have also used the tragedy as a sobering reminder of the dangers of high-speed riding and the importance of maintaining safe following distances, especially during nighttime travel. The Oregon Department of Transportation continues to emphasize motorcycle safety awareness, urging all drivers to stay alert and share the road responsibly.
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, the Hillsboro Police Department and Washington County CART continue to review evidence, including witness statements, vehicle data, and roadway conditions, to determine the final cause of the crash. Toxicology results are pending as part of standard procedure.
The community awaits further updates, but for many, the focus remains on honoring the memory of Carlos Andres Marquez-Vargas, whose life was tragically cut short on a stretch of highway familiar to so many in the Portland metro area.