Lily Vanderhoff Obituary, Death – An 18-year-old woman from Oregon tragically lost her life in a sledding accident involving an ATV while enjoying a snow day with friends.
The Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Lily Vanderhoff, 18, passed away on Thursday afternoon. According to reports, she was riding in a sled that was being towed by an ATV with a rope along a snow-covered road in Dundee when the accident occurred.
Around 2:30 p.m., Vanderhoff collided with a mailbox on Northeast Hagey Road. Neighbors immediately rushed to help her, with one person performing CPR. However, despite their efforts, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Emergency responders arrived at 3:22 p.m. to assist, but it was too late.
Robert Moxley, who lives near the crash site, shared his sorrow over the incident. He recalled how similar activities were common in his childhood and emphasized how unexpected tragedies like this can deeply affect a community.
“This is very difficult for us. It’s something that we weren’t prepared for,” Moxley said. “We did it when we were young. Accidents happen. It’s unfortunate. It’s going to be tough for our community.”
He also encouraged others to take safety precautions, such as wearing helmets, and to cherish their loved ones.
“Try to wear your helmet, if you can. Think about stuff like this happening,” he said. “If you have a friend or family member, tell them you love them. It might be the last time you see them.”
Following Vanderhoff’s passing, her family created a GoFundMe page to assist her mother with funeral costs. The fundraiser described Vanderhoff as a source of love and light, expressing comfort in the belief that she is now at peace.
“She brought so much love and light into our lives, and her presence will forever be missed. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort knowing she is now with the Lord, embraced by His eternal love and peace. We hold onto the hope that one day we will be reunited in His presence,” the GoFundMe statement read.
The Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office and the Newberg-Dundee School District both extended their condolences to Vanderhoff’s family.
Vanderhoff was a 2024 graduate of Newberg High School, and the district acknowledged her passing in a letter to students and their families. They announced that grief support resources would be available for students and staff beginning Tuesday.
Meanwhile, authorities continue to investigate the incident to determine any further details surrounding the accident.