Austin Buchholtz Death, Highway 26 Crash in Clackamas County Oregon Obituary

Austin Rylee Buchholtz, 24, of Corbett, Oregon, tragically lost his life in a head‑on collision on Highway 26 in Clackamas County on March 14, 2026. The crash occurred when a Nissan Frontier driven by 35‑year-old Heath Eugene Beardmore crossed the center line and struck a westbound Honda Accord carrying Austin, 19‑year-old Kailee Joy Peterson of Gresham, and another passenger. Austin was killed at the scene, while the other three were hospitalized with serious injuries.

Those who knew Austin remember him as a bright, kind‑hearted young man whose warmth, humor, and generosity left a lasting impact on friends, family, and the community. He cherished time with loved ones, both during everyday moments and special occasions, and built friendships effortlessly. His sudden death has deeply affected the Corbett and Sandy communities, who have come together to support his grieving family.

Emergency responders worked for hours to manage the scene, and traffic was halted for several hours while investigators reconstructed the crash. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the collision, asking anyone with information to come forward.

Austin’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, remembered not only for his joyful spirit and kindness but also for the positive impact he had on everyone around him. Friends and family are honoring his legacy by sharing stories, celebrating his life, and offering comfort to one another during this difficult time.