---Update to original and follow up release---
This evening Monmouth Police arrested Dyllan D. Coons, charging him with Criminally Negligent Homicide (Class B Felony) and Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver to Injured Persons (Class B Felony). Coons, a 19 year old from Dallas, Oregon, was identified as the driver of a vehicle that struck Santiago Amaya as he was walking at about 5:45 a.m. in the 1100 block of Main St. on Friday, Sept. 7. Amaya suffered critical injuries at the time and was transported to the Salem Hospital for treatment. Amaya passed away on September 12 as a result of those injuries.
Over the past week, Monmouth Police investigators conducted interviews, collected evidence and consulted with the District Attorney’s Office. Investigators also remained in contact with the Amaya family throughout the week. The investigation is very complex and involves investigators from multiple agencies.
Coons was taken into custody at his home without incident. He is currently lodged at the Polk County Jail. The investigation continues and additional charges may be filed.
During this investigation, the Monmouth Police Department has been assisted by the Independence Police Department, Oregon State Police, Polk County District Attorney’s Office and members of the Polk County Major Crimes Team.
---Update to original release---
The victim, Santiago Amaya, passed away today as a result of the injuries he sustained from the crash. Police have been in contact with Amaya's family and they have asked for privacy at this time. Investigators remain in contact and consultation with the Polk County District Attorney's Office as they continue with the investigation.
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On Friday September 7th at approximately 6:37 a.m. Monmouth police officers received a report of a male lying on the ground with serious injuries in the 1100 block of Main Street East. The caller thought the male could have been struck by a vehicle. EMS from Polk County Fire District No. 1 responded and transported the male, later identified as Santiago Amaya, to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Further investigation revealed that Amaya was struck by a vehicle and police have been investigating this as a hit & run crash.
The involved driver and vehicle were located several hours later. The driver has since cooperated with investigators. The investigation remains ongoing. The Monmouth Police Department is being assisted by the Independence Police Department, Dallas Police Department, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and members from the Polk County Major Crimes Team.
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