A Portland man died September 11 after an e-scooter collision with a road hazard,prompting renewed scrutiny of city infrastructure and a community fundraising effort to support his family. Randy Phelps, identified as an organ donor, succumbed to his injuries weeks after the incident.
The accident occurred at an intersection where residents had previously reported road imperfections. While the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) acknowledged receiving a report of a “raised bump” on August 29th and scheduled repairs for September 18th, the timing proved too late for Phelps. His death has galvanized local support for his partner,DiBagno,and their children,who are now facing an uncertain future.
According to witnesses, first responders, including Bobbi Jo Allen, immediately provided assistance. ”We ran out with latex gloves and some PPE and just did everything we could to try to help the situation,” Allen stated. Phelps was hospitalized for weeks before being taken off life support.
DiBagno shared that Phelps’s organs where donated, saving three lives. “I’m just happy that through this tragedy, through this horrific accident, that Randy was able to save some lives,” she said.
The community is rallying around the family with two fundraising initiatives. The Allens are hosting a fundraiser on Monday, September 22nd, donating 25% of their proceeds from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to DiBagno and her children. Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign has been established for those wishing to contribute directly: https://www.gofundme.com/f/lets-pitch-in-for-randy.
