Redmond man critically hurt in UTV rollover crash

A 24-year-old Redmond man was in critical condition at a Bend hospital Monday afternoon, the day after his off-road vehicle hit a bump and rolled “numerous times” on BLM land east of Redmond, Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies said.

A passenger in the side-by-side UTV (utility task vehicle) apparently was unhurt, they added.

Redmond police were the first to respond around 2:30 p.m. to the reported crash with injuries on public land off East Antler Avenue, said sheriff’s Sgt. Jayson Janes. They called in the sheriff’s office after determining the crash occurred outside the city limits.

Based on statements and evidence at the scene, deputies determined Ryan Rojas was driving a Yamaha YXZ 1000R, heading west on East Antler Avenue when he drove over a bump in the road and lost control of the vehicle, which rolled several times before coming to rest on its wheels.

Rojas was flown by Life Flight helicopter to St. Charles Bend, where he was in serious condition Sunday evening but in critical condition Monday, according to house supervisors. Passenger Bryce Shiner, 23, of Bend, did not report any injuries, Janes said.

Janes said Monday the UTV’s occupants were wearing helmets and seat belts, and there was no indication of drugs or alcohol being factors in the crash.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by Redmond police and fire departments.