Redmond family of five in rollover crash north of Bend

A Redmond family of five had some scary moments Tuesday morning when their minivan overturned on their way to a Christmas celebration in Bend.

Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies said the family was going to visit relatives when slick roads caused their minivan to spin out of control.

Their Ford Freestar left Deschutes Market Road north of Bend and landed on its roof in a ditch, sheriff’s Lt. Ty Rupert said.

Officers said everyone inside was wearing a seat belt, and the three children, all under 10 years old, were in car seats.

Officers said the family was scared and cold, but no major injuries were reported.

The male driver had a small cut to his forehead and several small cuts on the back of his head from flying glass, while the female passenger had knee pain and was holding the three kids to keep them warm when deputies arrived, Rupert said. All were checked out at the scene by Bend Fire medics.

The family’s Christmas presents flew out of the van during the crash. Deputies helped by gathering and recovering nearly all the gifts.

“We’re not Santa,” Rupert said. “We’re just glad that we were able to help the family. They were scared, and we’re proud to be out here, taking care of our community and making sure that they’re safe and that their well-being is okay.”

Relatives of the family came out to provide comfort and transportation. Deputies helped once again by helping deliver the family’s presents to a relative’s house so they could all celebrate Christmas.

Rupert said they want to remind everyone to drive slowly and keep a comfortable following distance to make sure everyone has a safe and happy Christmas.