Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on January 30, 2023, at 3:10 p.m., Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call reporting a crash on Lyons-Mill City Drive near the intersection of Mowitch Street outside of Lyons. The caller reported hearing a loud collision and thought a crash occurred.

Deputies arrived minutes later and found two vehicles collided and one of the drivers was unresponsive. The investigation revealed Jesse Guzman, 23, of Stayton, was traveling east on Lyons-Mill City Drive in his 1995 Dodge Intrepid when he crossed into the opposite lane of travel, hitting an oncoming 2013 Honda Civic. Both occupants of the Honda were transported to Salem Hospital with serious injuries. Guzman, the unresponsive driver, was pronounced deceased on scene. It is unknown what caused Guzman to leave his lane of travel. The investigation is ongoing.

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Lyons Fire Department and the Linn County Medical Examiner’s Office. 

Law Enforcement agencies throughout Linn County responded to multiple fatal crashes yesterday impacting a significant amount of family, friends and community members. Our thoughts are with all those who suffer in the loss of those close to them. The Linn County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind everyone to drive with care. Any reckless behavior will be investigated fully and those committing criminal acts will be held accountable.