Gresham, Oregon | November 2025 – A heartbreaking car crash in June that claimed the lives of Theresa Heick, 69, and her husband Robert Heick, 79, has led to an indictment of a suspect, offering a step toward justice for the grieving family, though they say it’s far from providing closure. Eyasu Bedasso, 22, was indicted on October 31, 2025, for charges including two counts of second-degree manslaughter, two counts of criminally negligent homicide, and reckless driving. Bedasso was arrested last Wednesday, as confirmed by the Gresham County Police Department.
What Happened?
The tragic incident occurred on June 16, 2025, when Eyasu Bedasso, driving an SUV, collided with the couple’s car on Southwest Towle Avenue in Gresham. Theresa Heick, the driver, was pronounced dead at the scene, and Robert Heick was critically injured and rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, Robert later succumbed to his injuries.
After months of investigation, which included examining physical evidence, surveillance footage, and data from Bedasso’s vehicle, authorities determined that Bedasso had been driving at over 80 mph in a 35 mph zone. Investigators believe speed played a major role in the deadly crash, but there was no evidence of impairment on Bedasso’s part. This revelation has left the Heick family devastated and angry, as they had hoped the crash might have been just a tragic accident.
The Heicks’ Family: A Grief-Stricken Loss
For the Heicks’ family, the loss is profound. Mikal Murray, the Heicks’ nephew, described the couple as being like parents to him. He and Tara Ivie, the Heicks’ niece, spoke to KPTV on November 7 near the scene of the crash, where a makeshift memorial had been set up. The family described Theresa and Robert as integral figures in their lives, always checking in on loved ones and friends within the community.
“We lost both of them. How do we move forward without them?” Ivie said, visibly struggling with the loss of her family. She also expressed her frustration with the lack of communication from authorities regarding the investigation, revealing that the family learned about Bedasso’s arrest and the charges through a press release on November 7.
Bedasso’s Legal Proceedings
Despite the gravity of the charges, Bedasso’s bond was set at just $10,000, and he was released on Friday after posting 10% of the bond, or $1,000. This has intensified the family’s frustration, as Murray noted, “He gets to potentially spend the holidays with his family, and we don’t.”
Bedasso, who has pleaded not guilty, is set to appear in court again on December 19, 2025. His legal proceedings continue, and the Heicks’ family remains determined to seek justice for their loved ones.
Community Action and Safety Measures
The Heicks’ family is pushing for traffic safety changes in the area, urging local officials to take action. They hope their efforts will prevent another family from experiencing the same devastating loss.
“We have two things left: justice and change,” said Murray. “That’s what we can do.”
Public Response and Tributes
In the wake of this tragic event, the Gresham community has shown support for the Heick family, with many rallying around them and echoing their call for safer streets and stricter penalties for reckless drivers. The emotional toll of the incident has led to a broader conversation about traffic safety and justice in the community.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
