Bend bikers raise funds for co-worker badly hurt in UTV crash

A Redmond man was seriously injured in an off-roading crash on BLM land just east of Redmond Sunday. After the crash, Ryan Rojas was flown to St. Charles Bend, where he remained Monday, in critical condition.

With a love for riding, Rojas is an employee at WildHorse Harley-Davidson in Bend. His co-workers are now planning to raise money to help cover his medical expenses.

Rojas was enjoying his Father’s Day outside off-roading with family and friends when he was involved in an accident.

“I think he was experienced enough where this is just a freak accident for him,” said co-worker Catherine Monchamp. She said the unpredictable road conditions can make off-roading dangerous.

“He does race motocross on two wheels, and the UTV is a four-wheel two-seater, and that’s what he was riding when he had his accident,” Monchamp said.

Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies said the 24-year-old was driving the vehicle west on East Antler Avenue when it hit a bump. The led Rojas to lose control of the UTV, allowing it to roll several times and badly injuring Rojas.

“I was really surprised to hear something had happened, because he was an experienced rider and a responsible young man,” Monchamp said.

Rojas was riding along with 23-year-old passenger Bryce Shiner of Bend, who was uninjured in the crash. The men wore wearing seat belts, helmets and gloves.

Alcohol and drugs are not believed to be a factor in the accident, deputies said. Rojas’ girlfriend said he does not do drugs or drink.

Rojas’ co-workers and friends decided to start fundraisers to help with medical expenses. They will be holding a Krispy Kreme fundraiser this week and are planning a motorcycle ride fundraiser for July 4 .

“The guys in the back that worked closely with Ryan are planning on doing a 24-hour, 1,000-mile motorcycle ride,” Monchamp said.

Rojas has a 6-year-old son named Ryder, who his father named after his passion.

Rojas has undergone hours of surgery and was put in a medically induced coma. His loved ones are praying for a quick recovery.

A GoFundMe account has also been set up to help with medical expenses. For more information on that or the other fundraisers you can visit www.facebook.com/wildhorsehd