TriMet Bus Struck Cyclist in Portland

A cyclist suffered life-threatening injuries after being hit by a TriMet Lift bus in the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Cycling

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A cyclist was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries following a collision with a TriMet Lift bus in Portland's Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood Monday. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

A cyclist was transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries following a collision with a TriMet Lift bus in Portland on Monday afternoon. The incident occurred at the intersection of SE 136th Avenue and SE Mall Street.

Why it matters

The crash prompted significant traffic disruptions in the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood as local authorities initiated a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Portland Police assigned case number 26-276823 to the incident. No further statistical metrics regarding traffic volume or vehicle speed at the scene have been released.

The players

TriMet

TriMet is the municipal agency that operates public transit services throughout the Portland metropolitan area.

The details

Officers responded to the crash site in the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood shortly before 4:30 p.m. to provide assistance. Authorities subsequently closed SE 136th Avenue in both directions between SE Center Street and SE Cora Street to facilitate an on-site investigation.

Timeline

  1. September 21, 2026: The collision occurred during the afternoon.

  2. September 21, 2026, 4:30 p.m.: Police arrived at the scene of the crash.

Season Trajectory

This incident highlights the persistent safety challenges facing the city's transit network and cyclists. It underscores the ongoing tensions between public transportation operations and local cycling infrastructure safety.

Residents in the Powellhurst-Gilbert area should expect ongoing traffic delays due to the extended closure of SE 136th Avenue between SE Center Street and SE Cora Street. Commuters are advised to utilize alternative routes while the police investigation remains active.

The takeaway

Maintaining awareness and caution remains vital for both cyclists and transit operators in high-traffic urban corridors. Understanding local traffic safety patterns can help residents better navigate potential hazards in their daily commutes.

Further reading

For more information on local road safety and infrastructure, visit the Cycling section.