Deputies Investigate Fatal Crash (Photo)

UPDATE, 1/30/18:

The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the man who died in the January 29 crash in the 6700-block of North Foothill Road. The driver, Eric William Joyner, 55, of the 1400-block of Angel Crest Drive in Medford, was the sole occupant of the 2013 Ford Fusion that struck a large tree and caught fire.

Based on evidence from the crash investigation and information obtained from family, deputies believe Joyner was driving northbound when he intentionally veered off the roadway and into the tree. Joyner reportedly struggled with chronic illness and recently sought mental health treatment. Medford Police detectives assisted with the investigation.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call the Jackson County Mental Health Crisis Line at (541) 774-8201. Help is also available from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/.

Original release, 1/29/18: 

CENTRAL POINT, Ore. - Jackson County Sheriff's Office deputies are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash in the 6700-block of North Foothill Road. On January 29, 2018, at 8:09 am, dispatch received 911 calls reporting a single-vehicle crash. A northbound sedan left the roadway near a residential driveway. The vehicle struck a large pine tree and caught fire.

Deputies and crews from Jackson County Fire District #3 arrived to find the vehicle and tree fully engulfed. The vehicle's single occupant was pronounced dead at the scene.

A medical examiner investigator responded to the scene. The identity of the driver is believed to be known; family members have been notified. Confirmation will be made by the medical examiner's office prior to the release of the driver's name.

North Foothill Road was closed between Corey Road and East Vilas Road for about three hours while deputies investigated the crash. The Jackson County roads department assisted with traffic control.

Case #18-2069