Bend Man 'Lucky to be Alive' After Deer Crashes Through Windshield

"Upon striking the deer, it went partially through the front windshield on the driver's side and saturated Pollard with deer parts" - Oregon State Police

Photo courtesy: Oregon State Police

(BEND, Ore.) - Oregon State Police say a Bend-area man is lucky to be alive after a deer crashed through the windshield of his car Tuesday on Highway 97 north of the Deschutes Junction. Sergeant Eric Brown with OSP says that just after 7:30 PM, a 1992 Subaru station wagon driven by 37-year old Jeremy Pollard of Bend, was southbound on Highway 97 just north of Deschutes Junction when a deer ran into the path of his vehicle.

"Upon striking the deer, it went partially through the front windshield on the driver's side and saturated Pollard with deer parts," Brown said. He says Pollard was extremely lucky that the windshield partially deflected the deer and he did not receive the direct impact. Mr. Pollard was able to maintain control of his vehicle and come to a quick stop alongside the highway.

Drivers should take note and remember the importance of remaining alert for deer and other animals that can unexpectedly enter the roadway. Needless to say, wildlife like deer and elk add to the potential risk of injury for anyone who strikes them, especially drivers and front seat passengers. For motorcyclists, the risks are greater.

Source: Oregon State Police