Close Up Shot Focused on Yellow Tape Showing Text Police Line Do Not Cross. Restricted Area of a Crime Scene. Bokeh Background with Flickering Siren Lights. Forensics Team Working on a Case
The Salem community is reeling after the tragic death of Jeremy Wanak, a 46-year-old cyclist, father of two, and dedicated science teacher at Sprague High School. Wanak was struck and killed by an alleged drunk driver on the evening of July 10, 2025, in south Salem.
According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of a collision in the 2000 block of Delaney Road SE at approximately 7:19 p.m. When they arrived, they found a white Hyundai Accent at the scene, along with Wanak, who had suffered life-threatening injuries.
Emergency medical personnel transported him to Salem Health hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The road remained closed for nearly six hours as authorities investigated the crash.
The driver of the vehicle, a 28-year-old man from Salem, was arrested at the scene. He faces multiple charges including first-degree manslaughter, reckless driving, reckless endangering, and driving under the influence of intoxicants. He is scheduled to be arraigned at 2:30 p.m. on July 11 at the Marion County Court Annex.
Wanak’s sudden death has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, students, colleagues, and neighbors. As a father of two and a long-standing member of the Sprague High School faculty, he was admired not only for his intellect and teaching skills but for his warmth, patience, and unwavering dedication to those around him.
In a heartfelt letter to Sprague High School families, Principal Chad Barkes paid tribute to Wanak, describing him as a pillar of the school community. “He was known for being kind, calm, welcoming and extremely thoughtful,” Barkes wrote. “He always carried a strong belief in our students as well as his coworkers. He will be greatly missed.”
Students and staff have echoed these sentiments, recalling Wanak as someone who made science come alive in the classroom and who always had time for a student in need of guidance or a word of encouragement. His classroom, often filled with laughter and curiosity, was a safe space for exploration, learning, and connection.
Outside of school, Wanak was an avid cyclist who loved the open roads of Oregon and found joy and peace in nature. Friends described him as a devoted father who never missed a soccer game or school concert, and who cherished quality time with his children.
“He was one of those people you could always count on,” said a fellow teacher at Sprague. “Whether it was a late-night grading session or organizing a field trip, Jeremy was there with a smile on his face and a heart ready to help.”
The senselessness of the tragedy is only heightened by the circumstances. DUI-related deaths remain a persistent and heartbreaking issue across the country, and Wanak’s passing is a painful reminder of the devastating consequences that can result from one person’s irresponsible actions.
In response to the loss, grief counselors have been made available at Sprague High School for students and staff who are struggling to process the news. Community members have begun organizing memorial events and tributes, including a planned candlelight vigil at the school later this week.
A memorial fund has also been set up to support Wanak’s two children and to honor his legacy in education. Friends and family say they hope his memory will live on through the students he taught, the lives he touched, and the love he poured into his community.
As Salem mourns the loss of a beloved teacher, father, and friend, the community comes together to remember Jeremy Wanak not for how he died, but for how he lived—with integrity, kindness, and an enduring commitment to making the world a better place.
