Freightliner Versus Bicycle Collision near Oak Knoll Avenue Kills 2 Oregon Bicyclists

NAPA COUNTY, CA (October 19, 2023) – Late Tuesday morning, Christian Deaton and Michelle Deaton were fatally struck by lumber from a flatbed truck along the Silverado Trail. 

The fatal incident occurred around 11:00 a.m. at the 5300 block of Silverado Trail, north of Oak Knoll Avenue. 

According to CHP, a load of lumber from a 2018 Freightliner flatbed truck shifted to the right, outside of the flatbed container. 

Consequently, a piece of lumber hit a man on a Trek bicycle and a woman on a specialized bicycle. Authorities said that all parties were traveling northbound at the time of the collision. 

Responding emergency personnel declared 52-year-old Christian Deaton dead at the scene. The paramedics rushed 48-year-old Michelle Deaton to Queen of the Valley Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries. Both victims were determined to be residents of Portland, Oregon. 

Meanwhile, the truck driver, identified as Porfirio Sanchez of Vallejo, did not sustain injuries and remained at the scene. 

At around 11:54 a.m., Napa County Officials closed the Silverado Train from Oak Knoll to Yountville Cross Road. Police continue to investigate the incident. 

In this sorrowful time, the Sweet James team would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of Christian and Michelle Deaton.

It is important to have strong legal representation on your side when losing a loved one in a traffic accident. Reach out to the wrongful death lawyers at Sweet James today. With 20 years of experience in the field, we know what it takes to help you win your case. Our team understands that nothing can alleviate the emotional pain of the death of a loved one, but we can help you seek justice and compensation. Call us at 1-844-363-7713 for a free and confidential case evaluation. You can reach us 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through email, text, and online chat.