Driver gets 20-year sentence for Oregon softball team crash

Johnathan James Dowdy, 33, has been sentenced to 20½ years in prison for a tragic accident that took the lives of two members of a cherished Oregon community college softball team in April. The sentence was given by Judge Andrew E. Combs after Dowdy pled guilty to various charges, including second-degree manslaughter, assault-related offenses, DUI, and driving with a suspended license. This case underscores the serious impacts of repeated DUI offenses and driving violations, highlighting how impaired driving can lead to devastating consequences and loss of life. The accident occurred when Dowdy's pickup truck crossed the center line and collided with a bus carrying Umpqua Community College softball team members. The crash resulted in the death of Coach Jami Strinz and freshman first baseman Kiley Jones, with several other passengers sustaining injuries. Dowdy, who also got injured in the crash, has a history of DUI convictions and driving violations. As part of his sentence, Dowdy will serve time in prison, have his driver's license revoked for life, and will be fined $2,000. Despite forgiving him, Jones' family members expressed the deep impact of their loss. Dowdy's sentence includes a period of post-prison supervision and a lifelong driving ban. Meanwhile, Umpqua Community College's softball program continues to honor the memories of Coach Strinz and Jones as they work towards rebuilding.