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News Release

Fatal Crash – Highway 26 – Clatsop County - 08/31/26

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore (31 August 2026) – On Friday, August 28, 2026, at approximately 5:18 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a multi-vehicle crash on Highway 26 near milepost 24 in Clatsop County.  

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Honda Fit, operated by Henry Herbert Greenwood (77) of Portland, was traveling eastbound on Highway 26 when for, unknown reasons, it crossed into the westbound lane of travel and sideswiped a westbound black Tesla Model S, operated by Tomislave Lakovic (56) of Portland. The Honda then collided head-on with a westbound black Toyota Tacoma pickup, operated by Samantha Reanne Martindale (30) of Molalla, that was following the Tesla.  

 

An eastbound black Volkswagen Golf, operated by Brandon J. Troost (35) of Portland, attempted to avoid the Honda as it veered back into the eastbound lane of travel but was rear-ended by an eastbound Ford F-350 pickup, operated by Scott Michael Harrington (51) of Hillsboro.  

 

The operator of the Honda (Greenwood) was flown to a Portland area hospital by Life Flight and was pronounced deceased upon arrival. A passenger in the Honda was also flown by Life Flight to a Portland area hospital with serious injuries.

 

The operator of the Tesla (Lakovic) was not injured in the crash. Two passengers in the Tesla were also uninjured.  

 

The operator of the Toyota (Martindale) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. Four passengers in the Toyota were also transported to a local hospital with minor to serious injuries.    

 

The operator of the Volkswagen (Troost) and a passenger in the Volkswagen reported minor injuries but declined transport.  

 

The operator of the Ford (Harrington) was not injured. 

 

Highway 26 was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by Medix Ambulance Service, Hamlet Rural Fire Protection District, Banks Fire District, Elsie Vinemaple Rural Fire Protection District, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.     

 

 

   

   
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 26 – Clatsop County - 08/31/26

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore (31 August 2026) – On Friday, August 28, 2026, at approximately 5:18 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a multi-vehicle crash on Highway 26 near milepost 24 in Clatsop County.  

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Honda Fit, operated by Henry Herbert Greenwood (77) of Portland, was traveling eastbound on Highway 26 when for, unknown reasons, it crossed into the westbound lane of travel and sideswiped a westbound black Tesla Model S, operated by Tomislave Lakovic (56) of Portland. The Honda then collided head-on with a westbound black Toyota Tacoma pickup, operated by Samantha Reanne Martindale (30) of Molalla, that was following the Tesla.  

 

An eastbound black Volkswagen Golf, operated by Brandon J. Troost (35) of Portland, attempted to avoid the Honda as it veered back into the eastbound lane of travel but was rear-ended by an eastbound Ford F-350 pickup, operated by Scott Michael Harrington (51) of Hillsboro.  

 

The operator of the Honda (Greenwood) was flown to a Portland area hospital by Life Flight and was pronounced deceased upon arrival. A passenger in the Honda was also flown by Life Flight to a Portland area hospital with serious injuries.

 

The operator of the Tesla (Lakovic) was not injured in the crash. Two passengers in the Tesla were also uninjured.  

 

The operator of the Toyota (Martindale) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. Four passengers in the Toyota were also transported to a local hospital with minor to serious injuries.    

 

The operator of the Volkswagen (Troost) and a passenger in the Volkswagen reported minor injuries but declined transport.  

 

The operator of the Ford (Harrington) was not injured. 

 

Highway 26 was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by Medix Ambulance Service, Hamlet Rural Fire Protection District, Banks Fire District, Elsie Vinemaple Rural Fire Protection District, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.     

 

 

   

   
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

AMBER Alert Canceled - Josephine County - 08/31/26

JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. (31 August 2026) - On Monday, August 31, 2006, at 11:19 a.m., Oregon State Police issued an AMBER Alert on behalf of the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office on a report of an 8-month-old infant abducted by a non-custodial parent from a residence in 32000 block of Redwood Highway in Josephine County. The infant was abducted following a domestic violence incident at the location and the suspect was known to be armed.

 

At 11:27 a.m., Oregon State Police was notified by Josephine County that a suspect and infant had been located. The suspect was taken into custody, and the child was safely recovered unharmed.

 

The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office is the lead investigating agency and the appropriate contact for additional information about the incident.

 

# # #

 

About AMBER Alert Activations

Oregon’s AMBER Alert program is administered by the Oregon State Police. It is a statewide program used to help locate abducted children. OSP uses FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) to send both Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and Emergency Alert System (EAS) messages in the event of an AMBER Alert. Alerts are transmitted simultaneously to all mobile devices in the affected area. AMBER Alerts are issued when specific activation criteria is met and includes a reasonable belief that an abduction has occurred; the child is aged 17 years or younger; law enforcement believe the child is in imminent danger; and there is enough information to assist in the recovery of the child.

AMBER Alert Canceled - Josephine County - 08/31/26

JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. (31 August 2026) - On Monday, August 31, 2006, at 11:19 a.m., Oregon State Police issued an AMBER Alert on behalf of the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office on a report of an 8-month-old infant abducted by a non-custodial parent from a residence in 32000 block of Redwood Highway in Josephine County. The infant was abducted following a domestic violence incident at the location and the suspect was known to be armed.

 

At 11:27 a.m., Oregon State Police was notified by Josephine County that a suspect and infant had been located. The suspect was taken into custody, and the child was safely recovered unharmed.

 

The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office is the lead investigating agency and the appropriate contact for additional information about the incident.

 

# # #

 

About AMBER Alert Activations

Oregon’s AMBER Alert program is administered by the Oregon State Police. It is a statewide program used to help locate abducted children. OSP uses FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) to send both Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and Emergency Alert System (EAS) messages in the event of an AMBER Alert. Alerts are transmitted simultaneously to all mobile devices in the affected area. AMBER Alerts are issued when specific activation criteria is met and includes a reasonable belief that an abduction has occurred; the child is aged 17 years or younger; law enforcement believe the child is in imminent danger; and there is enough information to assist in the recovery of the child.

Fatal Crash – Highway 20 – Lincoln County - 08/28/26

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. (28 August 2026) – On Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at approximately 11:35 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 20 near milepost 10 in Lincoln County.    

  

The preliminary investigation indicated a beige 1996 Acura Integra, operated by Orion David Sliwka (19) of Salem, was traveling westbound on Highway 20 when it struck what was initially believed to be a deer. The vehicle continued westbound and eventually stopped at a business in Newport.    

  

While at the business, a second party spoke with the Sliwka and a passenger of the Acura and learned they may have struck a person. The second party contacted 911 to report the incident.   

   

The Toledo Police Department later located a deceased pedestrian in a ditch near milepost 10 on Highway 20. The pedestrian was identified as Cordaro Ryan Stock (34) of Toledo.  

  

Neither the operator of the Acura (Sliwka) nor his passenger were injured. Sliwka cooperated with investigating law enforcement.     

 

Highway 20 was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation. 

 

This crash is still under investigation, and no further information will be released at this time.    

 

OSP was assisted by Pacific West Ambulance, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, the Toledo Police Department, the Newport Police Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.    

 

   

# # # 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state. 

Fatal Crash – Highway 20 – Lincoln County - 08/28/26

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. (28 August 2026) – On Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at approximately 11:35 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 20 near milepost 10 in Lincoln County.    

  

The preliminary investigation indicated a beige 1996 Acura Integra, operated by Orion David Sliwka (19) of Salem, was traveling westbound on Highway 20 when it struck what was initially believed to be a deer. The vehicle continued westbound and eventually stopped at a business in Newport.    

  

While at the business, a second party spoke with the Sliwka and a passenger of the Acura and learned they may have struck a person. The second party contacted 911 to report the incident.   

   

The Toledo Police Department later located a deceased pedestrian in a ditch near milepost 10 on Highway 20. The pedestrian was identified as Cordaro Ryan Stock (34) of Toledo.  

  

Neither the operator of the Acura (Sliwka) nor his passenger were injured. Sliwka cooperated with investigating law enforcement.     

 

Highway 20 was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation. 

 

This crash is still under investigation, and no further information will be released at this time.    

 

OSP was assisted by Pacific West Ambulance, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, the Toledo Police Department, the Newport Police Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.    

 

   

# # # 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state. 

Fatal Crash – Interstate 5 – Douglas County - 08/28/26

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. (28 August 2026) – On August 26, 2026, at approximately 8:18 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Interstate 5 southbound near milepost 127 in Douglas County. 

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a black 2009 Toyota Scion TC, operated by Deanndra Elaine Hamlett (25) of Roseburg, was traveling southbound on Interstate 5 when it left the roadway for an unknown reason and rolled over.  Hamlett was ejected from the vehicle.  

The operator of the Scion (Hamlett) was pronounced deceased at the scene.  

 

Interstate 5 was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.  

 

OSP was assisted by Central Douglas Fire & Rescue and the Oregon Department of Transportation.   

   
 

# # # 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state. 

Fatal Crash – Interstate 5 – Douglas County - 08/28/26

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. (28 August 2026) – On August 26, 2026, at approximately 8:18 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Interstate 5 southbound near milepost 127 in Douglas County. 

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a black 2009 Toyota Scion TC, operated by Deanndra Elaine Hamlett (25) of Roseburg, was traveling southbound on Interstate 5 when it left the roadway for an unknown reason and rolled over.  Hamlett was ejected from the vehicle.  

The operator of the Scion (Hamlett) was pronounced deceased at the scene.  

 

Interstate 5 was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.  

 

OSP was assisted by Central Douglas Fire & Rescue and the Oregon Department of Transportation.   

   
 

# # # 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state. 

Oregon State Police Investigating Vandalism At Multiple Oregon State Parks - 08/25/26

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore.  (25 August 26) – Oregon State Police is investigating extensive vandalism that occurred at multiple Oregon State Parks in Lincoln County. 

 

The vandalism occurred sometime between approximately 10:00 p.m. on August 21, 2026, and 7:00 a.m. on August 22, 2026. Multiple state park restroom facilities were targeted, with damage ranging from the removal of paper towel dispensers to the destruction and removal of fixtures and other items from inside the facilities. Fires were also intentionally started at several of the locations.

 

The affected locations may include:

  • Agate Beach State Wayside

  • Otter Rock State Park

  • Gleneden Beach State Park

  • Fogarty Creek State Park

OSP is seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in or around these locations during the timeframe of the incidents. Investigators are also asking anyone with video footage from roads leading to or adjacent to the affected state parks to review their recordings for potentially relevant activity.

 

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact OSP Dispatch at 800-442-0776 or by dialing *OSP (*677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-274452. 

 

 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of nearly 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon. 

Oregon State Police Investigating Vandalism At Multiple Oregon State Parks - 08/25/26

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore.  (25 August 26) – Oregon State Police is investigating extensive vandalism that occurred at multiple Oregon State Parks in Lincoln County. 

 

The vandalism occurred sometime between approximately 10:00 p.m. on August 21, 2026, and 7:00 a.m. on August 22, 2026. Multiple state park restroom facilities were targeted, with damage ranging from the removal of paper towel dispensers to the destruction and removal of fixtures and other items from inside the facilities. Fires were also intentionally started at several of the locations.

 

The affected locations may include:

  • Agate Beach State Wayside

  • Otter Rock State Park

  • Gleneden Beach State Park

  • Fogarty Creek State Park

OSP is seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in or around these locations during the timeframe of the incidents. Investigators are also asking anyone with video footage from roads leading to or adjacent to the affected state parks to review their recordings for potentially relevant activity.

 

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact OSP Dispatch at 800-442-0776 or by dialing *OSP (*677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-274452. 

 

 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of nearly 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon. 

Fatal Crash – Highway 197 – Wasco County - 08/25/26

WASCO COUNTY, Ore. (25 August 2026) – On August 22, 2026, at approximately 4:11 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 197 near milepost 8 in Wasco County. 

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Ford Fusion sedan, operated by Cameron Michael Bostick (21) of Dufur, was southbound on Highway 197 when it entered the northbound lane for unknown reasons and struck a Ram 2500 pickup, operated by Breann Alyse Young (35), of The Dalles, head-on. 

 

The operator of the Ford (Bostick) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Ram (Young) was transported by Life Flight to an area hospital with serious injuries.  

 

A four-year-old female juvenile in the Ram was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.  

 

Highway 197 was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation.  

 

OSP was assisted by Wasco County Sheriff’s Office, Dufur Volunteer Fire and EMS, U.S. Forest Service law enforcement, U.S. Forest Service Wildland Fire, and Oregon Department of Transportation.          

  
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 197 – Wasco County - 08/25/26

WASCO COUNTY, Ore. (25 August 2026) – On August 22, 2026, at approximately 4:11 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 197 near milepost 8 in Wasco County. 

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Ford Fusion sedan, operated by Cameron Michael Bostick (21) of Dufur, was southbound on Highway 197 when it entered the northbound lane for unknown reasons and struck a Ram 2500 pickup, operated by Breann Alyse Young (35), of The Dalles, head-on. 

 

The operator of the Ford (Bostick) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Ram (Young) was transported by Life Flight to an area hospital with serious injuries.  

 

A four-year-old female juvenile in the Ram was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.  

 

Highway 197 was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation.  

 

OSP was assisted by Wasco County Sheriff’s Office, Dufur Volunteer Fire and EMS, U.S. Forest Service law enforcement, U.S. Forest Service Wildland Fire, and Oregon Department of Transportation.          

  
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 38 – Douglas County - 08/25/26

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. (24 August 2026) – On August 21, 2026, at approximately 1:38 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 38 near milepost 27 in Douglas County.  

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a yellow 2021 Ram 2500 pickup towing a 17-foot boat, operated by Jason Dean Paden (63), of Portland, was eastbound on Highway 38 when it left its lane of travel, crossed the centerline, and struck a 2012 Ford F350 pickup head-on, operated by William Everett Ratledge (56) of Oakland, which was westbound on Highway 38.

 

The operator of the Ram (Paden) was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. Two passengers in the Ram, including a fourteen-year-old female, were also transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.  

 

The operator of the Ford (Ratledge) was transported by Life Flight to a local hospital.  Two juvenile males were transported to a local hospital with injuries, while a thirteen-year-old male was pronounced deceased at the scene.     

 

Highway 38 was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.  

 

OSP was assisted by Lower Umpqua Ambulance, Umpqua Valley Ambulance, Elkton Fire and Rescue, Scottsburg Fire and Rescue, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

Anyone with information about the incident or who may have observed the yellow Ram pickup and boat prior to the crash is asked to contact OSP Dispatch at 800-442-0776 or by dialing *OSP (*677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-273676.

 

      
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 38 – Douglas County - 08/25/26

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. (24 August 2026) – On August 21, 2026, at approximately 1:38 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 38 near milepost 27 in Douglas County.  

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a yellow 2021 Ram 2500 pickup towing a 17-foot boat, operated by Jason Dean Paden (63), of Portland, was eastbound on Highway 38 when it left its lane of travel, crossed the centerline, and struck a 2012 Ford F350 pickup head-on, operated by William Everett Ratledge (56) of Oakland, which was westbound on Highway 38.

 

The operator of the Ram (Paden) was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. Two passengers in the Ram, including a fourteen-year-old female, were also transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.  

 

The operator of the Ford (Ratledge) was transported by Life Flight to a local hospital.  Two juvenile males were transported to a local hospital with injuries, while a thirteen-year-old male was pronounced deceased at the scene.     

 

Highway 38 was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.  

 

OSP was assisted by Lower Umpqua Ambulance, Umpqua Valley Ambulance, Elkton Fire and Rescue, Scottsburg Fire and Rescue, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

Anyone with information about the incident or who may have observed the yellow Ram pickup and boat prior to the crash is asked to contact OSP Dispatch at 800-442-0776 or by dialing *OSP (*677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-273676.

 

      
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Interstate 84 – Union County - 08/25/26

UNION COUNTY, Ore. (25 August 2026) – On August 23, 2026, at approximately 10:32 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Interstate 84 near milepost 247 in Union County.  

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a white 2016 Ram 3500 pickup towing a utility trailer, operated by Scott Ray McClinton (56) of Prescott Valley, Arizona, was westbound on Interstate 84 when it rear-ended a slow-moving white 2017 Volvo semi-truck towing a flatbed trailer loaded with spools of cable, operated by Abdul Sami Saleh (42) of Rosenberg, Texas.

 

The operator of the Ram (McClinton) was pronounced deceased at the scene.  

 

The operator of the Volvo (Saleh) was not injured.  

 

Three occupants in the Ram suffered minor to serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital. 

 

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.  

 

OSP was assisted by La Grande Fire and Rescue, La Grande Rural Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.         

   
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Interstate 84 – Union County - 08/25/26

UNION COUNTY, Ore. (25 August 2026) – On August 23, 2026, at approximately 10:32 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Interstate 84 near milepost 247 in Union County.  

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a white 2016 Ram 3500 pickup towing a utility trailer, operated by Scott Ray McClinton (56) of Prescott Valley, Arizona, was westbound on Interstate 84 when it rear-ended a slow-moving white 2017 Volvo semi-truck towing a flatbed trailer loaded with spools of cable, operated by Abdul Sami Saleh (42) of Rosenberg, Texas.

 

The operator of the Ram (McClinton) was pronounced deceased at the scene.  

 

The operator of the Volvo (Saleh) was not injured.  

 

Three occupants in the Ram suffered minor to serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital. 

 

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.  

 

OSP was assisted by La Grande Fire and Rescue, La Grande Rural Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.         

   
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)  
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Interstate 5 – Douglas County - 08/19/26

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. (19 August 2026) – On Monday, August 17, 2026, at approximately 11:47 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 5 northbound near milepost 138. 

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Kia Rondo, operated by Carl Leslie Earhart (80) of Independence, was traveling northbound on Interstate 5 when it left the roadway for unknown reasons.  The vehicle struck a group of trees, rolled over, and caught fire. 

 

The operator of the Kia (Earhart) was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

 

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. 

 

OSP was assisted by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Sutherlin Police Department, Douglas County Fire District No. 2, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.   
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Interstate 5 – Douglas County - 08/19/26

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. (19 August 2026) – On Monday, August 17, 2026, at approximately 11:47 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 5 northbound near milepost 138. 

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Kia Rondo, operated by Carl Leslie Earhart (80) of Independence, was traveling northbound on Interstate 5 when it left the roadway for unknown reasons.  The vehicle struck a group of trees, rolled over, and caught fire. 

 

The operator of the Kia (Earhart) was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

 

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. 

 

OSP was assisted by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Sutherlin Police Department, Douglas County Fire District No. 2, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.   
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 30 – Clatsop County - 08/19/26

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore. (19 AUGUST 2026) – On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 12:40 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 30 near milepost 80 in Clatsop County approximately 16 miles east of Astoria. 

 

The preliminary investigation indicated that a gray Ford F-350 pickup, operated by Roger Dale McGilvey (73) of Ocean Park, Washington, was eastbound on Highway 30 when it rear-ended a tan Chevrolet Malibu sedan operated by Benny Roy Parker (86) of Astoria, which was stopped and waiting to turn onto Valley Creek Lane from Highway 30. The Malibu was pushed into the westbound lane, where it was struck by a westbound silver Honda Accord operated by Karl Edward Groenke (43) of Ocean Park, Washington.  

 

The operator of the Chevrolet (Parker) was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced deceased at the scene. 

 

The operator of the Ford (McGilvey) and the operator of the Honda (Groenke) sustained serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. 

 

OSP was assisted by the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Knappa Fire Department, Astoria Fire Department, Medix Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.      

  
 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 30 – Clatsop County - 08/19/26

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore. (19 AUGUST 2026) – On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 12:40 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 30 near milepost 80 in Clatsop County approximately 16 miles east of Astoria. 

 

The preliminary investigation indicated that a gray Ford F-350 pickup, operated by Roger Dale McGilvey (73) of Ocean Park, Washington, was eastbound on Highway 30 when it rear-ended a tan Chevrolet Malibu sedan operated by Benny Roy Parker (86) of Astoria, which was stopped and waiting to turn onto Valley Creek Lane from Highway 30. The Malibu was pushed into the westbound lane, where it was struck by a westbound silver Honda Accord operated by Karl Edward Groenke (43) of Ocean Park, Washington.  

 

The operator of the Chevrolet (Parker) was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced deceased at the scene. 

 

The operator of the Ford (McGilvey) and the operator of the Honda (Groenke) sustained serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. 

 

OSP was assisted by the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Knappa Fire Department, Astoria Fire Department, Medix Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.      

  
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Interstate 84 – Umatilla County - 08/13/26

UMATILLA COUNTY, Ore. (13 August 2026) – On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at approximately 2:15 p.m., Oregon State Police came upon a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 395 and Interstate 84 in Umatilla County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a Honda CRV, operated by Jeffrey Downer McGowan (51) of Woodinville, Washington, was traveling eastbound on Interstate 84 near Pendleton when the vehicle left the freeway for an unknown reason. The vehicle entered the median, became airborne, and landed in the center of Hwy. 395, where it caught fire and became engulfed in flames. Responding troopers were able to extricate the driver from the vehicle.

 

The passenger in the Honda, Riley Finnegan McGowan (21) of Woodinville, Washington, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Honda (Jeffrey McGowan) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

 

Highway 395 was impacted for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Pendleton Police Department, Pendleton Fire & Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.  
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Interstate 84 – Umatilla County - 08/13/26

UMATILLA COUNTY, Ore. (13 August 2026) – On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at approximately 2:15 p.m., Oregon State Police came upon a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 395 and Interstate 84 in Umatilla County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a Honda CRV, operated by Jeffrey Downer McGowan (51) of Woodinville, Washington, was traveling eastbound on Interstate 84 near Pendleton when the vehicle left the freeway for an unknown reason. The vehicle entered the median, became airborne, and landed in the center of Hwy. 395, where it caught fire and became engulfed in flames. Responding troopers were able to extricate the driver from the vehicle.

 

The passenger in the Honda, Riley Finnegan McGowan (21) of Woodinville, Washington, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Honda (Jeffrey McGowan) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

 

Highway 395 was impacted for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Pendleton Police Department, Pendleton Fire & Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.  
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Interstate 84 – Gilliam County - 08/13/26

GILLIAM COUNTY, Ore. (13 August 2026) – On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at approximately 2:43 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 84 near milepost 123 in Gilliam County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound red Land Rover LR4 hauling an Airstream trailer, operated by James Thomas Raugust (77) of Ocean Shores, Washington, had pulled onto the right shoulder of the interstate with a flat tire. An Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) white Ford F550 maintenance truck, operated by Roger Vincent Birkeland of Arlington, had stopped to assist the disabled vehicle. The ODOT vehicle was parked behind the disabled vehicle blocking the right lane of travel with a large electronic reader board alerting oncoming traffic to move over. A westbound white Toyota Highlander, operated by Burke Lloyd Oneal (48) of Vancouver, Washington, struck the rear of the ODOT truck, lost control, and struck Raugust and Birkeland as they changed the flat tire.

 

The operator of the Land Rover (Raugust) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the ODOT maintenance truck (Birkeland) was transported by Life Flight to an area hospital with serious injuries.

 

A passenger in the Land Rover, Melodie Marie Raugust (80) of Ocean Shores, Washington, had reported minor injuries.

 

The operator of the Toyota (Oneal) had reported minor injuries.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

The crash remains under investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Police Department, Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

  

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Interstate 84 – Gilliam County - 08/13/26

GILLIAM COUNTY, Ore. (13 August 2026) – On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at approximately 2:43 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 84 near milepost 123 in Gilliam County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound red Land Rover LR4 hauling an Airstream trailer, operated by James Thomas Raugust (77) of Ocean Shores, Washington, had pulled onto the right shoulder of the interstate with a flat tire. An Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) white Ford F550 maintenance truck, operated by Roger Vincent Birkeland of Arlington, had stopped to assist the disabled vehicle. The ODOT vehicle was parked behind the disabled vehicle blocking the right lane of travel with a large electronic reader board alerting oncoming traffic to move over. A westbound white Toyota Highlander, operated by Burke Lloyd Oneal (48) of Vancouver, Washington, struck the rear of the ODOT truck, lost control, and struck Raugust and Birkeland as they changed the flat tire.

 

The operator of the Land Rover (Raugust) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the ODOT maintenance truck (Birkeland) was transported by Life Flight to an area hospital with serious injuries.

 

A passenger in the Land Rover, Melodie Marie Raugust (80) of Ocean Shores, Washington, had reported minor injuries.

 

The operator of the Toyota (Oneal) had reported minor injuries.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

The crash remains under investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Police Department, Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

  

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Death Investigation – Silver Falls State Park – Marion County - 08/13/26

MARION COUNTY, Ore.  (11 August 26) – On Monday, August 10, 2026, at approximately 6:36 p.m., Oregon State Police troopers and Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Silver Falls State Park following a report that someone had fallen from the top of the South Falls.  

 

Troopers determined the individual, Zachary Nicholas Mertens (20) of Burlington, KY, accessed a closed area to pose for photographs at the top of the waterfall. Mertens slipped and fell into the water approximately 177 feet below.

 

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team oversaw recovery efforts.

 

OSP was assisted by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Marion County Search and Rescue, and park rangers from the Silver Falls State Park. 

Death Investigation – Silver Falls State Park – Marion County - 08/13/26

MARION COUNTY, Ore.  (11 August 26) – On Monday, August 10, 2026, at approximately 6:36 p.m., Oregon State Police troopers and Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Silver Falls State Park following a report that someone had fallen from the top of the South Falls.  

 

Troopers determined the individual, Zachary Nicholas Mertens (20) of Burlington, KY, accessed a closed area to pose for photographs at the top of the waterfall. Mertens slipped and fell into the water approximately 177 feet below.

 

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team oversaw recovery efforts.

 

OSP was assisted by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Marion County Search and Rescue, and park rangers from the Silver Falls State Park. 

Fatal Crash – Highway 101 – Curry County - 08/12/26

CURRY COUNTY, Ore. (12 August 2026) – On Sunday, August 9, 2026, at approximately 12:38 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 101 near milepost 352 in Curry County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated that a black Triumph motorcycle, operated by Louis Henry Vowell III (36) of Sisters, was traveling northbound on Highway 101 near the Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint at a high rate of speed when it attempted to overtake multiple vehicles in a passing lane. When the motorcycle entered the passing lane, it collided with the rear of a gray Mazda CX-5, operated by Russell Keith Moore (56) of Pulaski, Arkansas, which was turning westbound into the Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint. The rider was thrown from the motorcycle and subsequently struck by a gray Mercedes Sprinter van, operated by Jeffrey Alan Ludwick (58) of Rogue River.

 

The Triumph operator (Vowell) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Mazda (Moore) and two adult passengers were reportedly not injured.

 

The operator of the Mercedes (Ludwick) and an adult passenger were reportedly not injured.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Cape Ferrelo Rural Fire Department, Brookings Fire & Rescue, Cal-Ore Life Flight, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 101 – Curry County - 08/12/26

CURRY COUNTY, Ore. (12 August 2026) – On Sunday, August 9, 2026, at approximately 12:38 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 101 near milepost 352 in Curry County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated that a black Triumph motorcycle, operated by Louis Henry Vowell III (36) of Sisters, was traveling northbound on Highway 101 near the Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint at a high rate of speed when it attempted to overtake multiple vehicles in a passing lane. When the motorcycle entered the passing lane, it collided with the rear of a gray Mazda CX-5, operated by Russell Keith Moore (56) of Pulaski, Arkansas, which was turning westbound into the Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint. The rider was thrown from the motorcycle and subsequently struck by a gray Mercedes Sprinter van, operated by Jeffrey Alan Ludwick (58) of Rogue River.

 

The Triumph operator (Vowell) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Mazda (Moore) and two adult passengers were reportedly not injured.

 

The operator of the Mercedes (Ludwick) and an adult passenger were reportedly not injured.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Cape Ferrelo Rural Fire Department, Brookings Fire & Rescue, Cal-Ore Life Flight, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 101 – Curry County - 08/10/26

CURRY COUNTY, Ore. (10 August 2026) – On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at approximately 5:14 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 101 near milepost 286 in Curry County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Buick Lucerne, operated by Joni Marie Williams (63) of Bandon, was traveling southbound on Highway 101 near Langlois when it crossed the centerline for an unknown reason. The Buick collided head-on with a northbound silver Pontiac Vibe, operated by Hunter Lee Sturgill (18) of Coos Bay.

 

The operator of the Buick (Williams) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Pontiac (Sturgill) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Bandon Police Department, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, the Sixes Rural Fire Protection District, the Langlois Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

  
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 101 – Curry County - 08/10/26

CURRY COUNTY, Ore. (10 August 2026) – On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at approximately 5:14 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 101 near milepost 286 in Curry County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Buick Lucerne, operated by Joni Marie Williams (63) of Bandon, was traveling southbound on Highway 101 near Langlois when it crossed the centerline for an unknown reason. The Buick collided head-on with a northbound silver Pontiac Vibe, operated by Hunter Lee Sturgill (18) of Coos Bay.

 

The operator of the Buick (Williams) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Pontiac (Sturgill) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Bandon Police Department, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, the Sixes Rural Fire Protection District, the Langlois Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

  
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 140 – Lake County - 08/10/26

LAKE COUNTY, Ore. (10 August 2026) – On Saturday, August 8, 2026, at approximately 10:39 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 140 near milepost 56 in Lake County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Dodge Challenger, operated by Juan Luis Perez Garcia (23) of Tule Lake, California, was traveling eastbound on Highway 140 in a remote area of Lake County when it left the roadway for an unknown reason and rolled several times down an embankment.

 

The operator (Perez Garcia) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

A passenger in the Dodge, Cristo Jesus Herrera (20) of Tule Lake, California, was transported by air ambulance to an area hospital with serious injuries.

 

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Lake County Search and Rescue, Lake County EMS, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.  

  
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 140 – Lake County - 08/10/26

LAKE COUNTY, Ore. (10 August 2026) – On Saturday, August 8, 2026, at approximately 10:39 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 140 near milepost 56 in Lake County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Dodge Challenger, operated by Juan Luis Perez Garcia (23) of Tule Lake, California, was traveling eastbound on Highway 140 in a remote area of Lake County when it left the roadway for an unknown reason and rolled several times down an embankment.

 

The operator (Perez Garcia) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

A passenger in the Dodge, Cristo Jesus Herrera (20) of Tule Lake, California, was transported by air ambulance to an area hospital with serious injuries.

 

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Lake County Search and Rescue, Lake County EMS, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.  

  
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 58 – Lane County - 08/10/26

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (10 August 2026) – On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at approximately 5:56 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 58 near milepost 42 in Lane County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a red Toyota 4Runner, operated by Colton Zachary Bias (25) of Springfield, was traveling westbound on Highway 58 near Oakridge when it entered the oncoming lane of travel for an unknown reason. The 4Runner collided head-on with an eastbound white Mack commercial motor vehicle, operated by Collin Mitchell Owens (60) of Springfield.

 

A 4Runner passenger, Marjorie Rae Spence (40) of Eugene, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the 4Runner (Bias) was transported to an area hospital, where he died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.

 

A 4Runner passenger, Kaylee Dail Cardwell (38) of Westfir, was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

 

The operator of the Mack (Owens) was reported not injured.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Oakridge Fire Department, the Lane County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 58 – Lane County - 08/10/26

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (10 August 2026) – On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at approximately 5:56 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 58 near milepost 42 in Lane County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a red Toyota 4Runner, operated by Colton Zachary Bias (25) of Springfield, was traveling westbound on Highway 58 near Oakridge when it entered the oncoming lane of travel for an unknown reason. The 4Runner collided head-on with an eastbound white Mack commercial motor vehicle, operated by Collin Mitchell Owens (60) of Springfield.

 

A 4Runner passenger, Marjorie Rae Spence (40) of Eugene, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the 4Runner (Bias) was transported to an area hospital, where he died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.

 

A 4Runner passenger, Kaylee Dail Cardwell (38) of Westfir, was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

 

The operator of the Mack (Owens) was reported not injured.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Oakridge Fire Department, the Lane County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Search Warrants Served In Northerm Marion County Area Investigation (Photo) - 08/08/26

MARION COUNTY, Ore. (7 August 2026) – In the early morning hours of August 7, 2026, the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement (LINE) team, an interagency HIDTA drug task force based in Linn County, in collaboration with the Oregon State Police, Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the West Side Interagency Narcotics (WIN) team, served two search warrants connected to illegal marijuana growing operations on two properties near Hubbard.


During the operation, several individuals were identified as potential victims of labor trafficking and had allegedly been forced to work at the sites. The individuals were given on-site access to resources through Safety Compass, a local non-profit that provides support to victims of human trafficking.


In addition to hygiene kits and emergency food, Safety Compass offered on-site interpreters, confidential advocacy, and connections to resources such as shelter, legal assistance, and victim services, as well as other culturally specific services based on individual needs.


Individuals reported poor living conditions and restrictions on leaving the property. Many reported coming to the properties under the assumption of legal work and said they had received unofficial work contracts.


Of the 17 individuals contacted as part of the investigation, 16 adults were released without charges.


One adult male suspect was cited in lieu of custody for possession of cocaine, and charges of unlawful manufacture of marijuana will be referred to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office. Additional referrals to the District Attorney’s Office include charges against another adult male for unlawful manufacture of marijuana, as well as two property owners for conspiracy to unlawfully manufacture marijuana.


Investigators seized approximately 47,595 marijuana plants, 80 pounds of processed marijuana, a small amount of cocaine, and nine firearms between the two locations.


Superintendent Casey Codding said, “It is deplorable for anyone to be forced to work against their will. Labor trafficking is often intertwined with other forms of illegal activity. Our priority is the safety and well-being of potential victims.” When troopers encounter signs of labor trafficking, OSP works with qualified partners to connect individuals voluntarily with advocacy, services, and other available resources.


OSP is coordinating with the Oregon Department of Human Services and victim-service partners to support voluntary connections to available services and resources.


The operation was conducted in keeping with Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise laws, which prohibit law enforcement from participating in federal immigration enforcement efforts.


This remains an active investigation, and no additional details are available for release at this time.


For 24/7 confidential help finding resources or to report human trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “INFO” to 233733. In northwest Oregon, Safety Compass also offers a 24/7 confidential hotline at 971-235-0021.

 

# # #

 

About the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement (LINE) Team
The LINE team is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. LINE is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) which is composed of members from the Albany Police Department, Oregon State Police, Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Lebanon Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and Oregon National Guard Counter Drug.

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement team.

Attached Media Files: OSP News Release, Marijuana Grow, Marijuana Grow,

Search Warrants Served In Northerm Marion County Area Investigation (Photo) - 08/08/26

MARION COUNTY, Ore. (7 August 2026) – In the early morning hours of August 7, 2026, the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement (LINE) team, an interagency HIDTA drug task force based in Linn County, in collaboration with the Oregon State Police, Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the West Side Interagency Narcotics (WIN) team, served two search warrants connected to illegal marijuana growing operations on two properties near Hubbard.


During the operation, several individuals were identified as potential victims of labor trafficking and had allegedly been forced to work at the sites. The individuals were given on-site access to resources through Safety Compass, a local non-profit that provides support to victims of human trafficking.


In addition to hygiene kits and emergency food, Safety Compass offered on-site interpreters, confidential advocacy, and connections to resources such as shelter, legal assistance, and victim services, as well as other culturally specific services based on individual needs.


Individuals reported poor living conditions and restrictions on leaving the property. Many reported coming to the properties under the assumption of legal work and said they had received unofficial work contracts.


Of the 17 individuals contacted as part of the investigation, 16 adults were released without charges.


One adult male suspect was cited in lieu of custody for possession of cocaine, and charges of unlawful manufacture of marijuana will be referred to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office. Additional referrals to the District Attorney’s Office include charges against another adult male for unlawful manufacture of marijuana, as well as two property owners for conspiracy to unlawfully manufacture marijuana.


Investigators seized approximately 47,595 marijuana plants, 80 pounds of processed marijuana, a small amount of cocaine, and nine firearms between the two locations.


Superintendent Casey Codding said, “It is deplorable for anyone to be forced to work against their will. Labor trafficking is often intertwined with other forms of illegal activity. Our priority is the safety and well-being of potential victims.” When troopers encounter signs of labor trafficking, OSP works with qualified partners to connect individuals voluntarily with advocacy, services, and other available resources.


OSP is coordinating with the Oregon Department of Human Services and victim-service partners to support voluntary connections to available services and resources.


The operation was conducted in keeping with Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise laws, which prohibit law enforcement from participating in federal immigration enforcement efforts.


This remains an active investigation, and no additional details are available for release at this time.


For 24/7 confidential help finding resources or to report human trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “INFO” to 233733. In northwest Oregon, Safety Compass also offers a 24/7 confidential hotline at 971-235-0021.

 

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About the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement (LINE) Team
The LINE team is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. LINE is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) which is composed of members from the Albany Police Department, Oregon State Police, Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Lebanon Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and Oregon National Guard Counter Drug.

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement team.

Attached Media Files: OSP News Release, Marijuana Grow, Marijuana Grow,

UPDATE - Fatal Crash – Highway 30 – Clatsop County - 08/04/26

UPDATE: Headline updated to reflect crash location of Highway 30. 

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore. (4 August 2026) – On Saturday, August 1, 2026, at approximately 8:59 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a fatal vehicle‑versus‑motorcycle crash on Highway 30 near milepost 90 in Clatsop County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Triumph Daytona motorcycle, operated by Samuel Stephen Clutter (55) of Portland, was traveling eastbound on Highway 30 near Timmerman Road near Astoria when it crossed into the westbound travel lane while attempting to pass in a no‑passing zone. The motorcycle collided head‑on with a yellow Ford Transit van, operated by Matthew James Weatherman (42) of Warrenton.

 

The operator of the Triumph (Clutter) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Ford van (Weatherman) had reported minor injuries.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Knappa Fire District, Medix Ambulance Service, Clatsop County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

UPDATE - Fatal Crash – Highway 30 – Clatsop County - 08/04/26

UPDATE: Headline updated to reflect crash location of Highway 30. 

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore. (4 August 2026) – On Saturday, August 1, 2026, at approximately 8:59 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a fatal vehicle‑versus‑motorcycle crash on Highway 30 near milepost 90 in Clatsop County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Triumph Daytona motorcycle, operated by Samuel Stephen Clutter (55) of Portland, was traveling eastbound on Highway 30 near Timmerman Road near Astoria when it crossed into the westbound travel lane while attempting to pass in a no‑passing zone. The motorcycle collided head‑on with a yellow Ford Transit van, operated by Matthew James Weatherman (42) of Warrenton.

 

The operator of the Triumph (Clutter) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Ford van (Weatherman) had reported minor injuries.

 

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Knappa Fire District, Medix Ambulance Service, Clatsop County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 234 – Jackson County - 08/04/26

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (4 August 2026) – On Saturday, August 1, 2026, at approximately 4:42 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a fatal vehicle-versus-elk crash.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Kia Spectra, operated by Hilver Randolfo Perez Interiano (51) of Grants Pass, was traveling eastbound on Highway 234 near Antioch Road near Eagle Point when it struck a large cow elk in the roadway. After striking the elk, the vehicle continued eastbound until it left the roadway and struck a tree on the westbound shoulder.

 

The operator of the Kia (Perez Interiano) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The Kia passenger, Eyda Ortiz Perez (42) of Grants Pass, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

 

The highway was closed for approximately four hours during the on‑scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Mercy Flights, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 
 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Fatal Crash – Highway 234 – Jackson County - 08/04/26

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (4 August 2026) – On Saturday, August 1, 2026, at approximately 4:42 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a fatal vehicle-versus-elk crash.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Kia Spectra, operated by Hilver Randolfo Perez Interiano (51) of Grants Pass, was traveling eastbound on Highway 234 near Antioch Road near Eagle Point when it struck a large cow elk in the roadway. After striking the elk, the vehicle continued eastbound until it left the roadway and struck a tree on the westbound shoulder.

 

The operator of the Kia (Perez Interiano) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The Kia passenger, Eyda Ortiz Perez (42) of Grants Pass, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

 

The highway was closed for approximately four hours during the on‑scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Mercy Flights, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 
 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Officer Involved Shooting – River Bend County Park – Linn County - 08/03/26

LINN COUNTY, Ore.  (3 August 26) – Highway 20 near River Bend County Park in Linn County is currently closed due to a police investigation. On Monday, August 3, 2026, at 7:25 p.m., Oregon State Police and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office responded to Highway 20 near milepost 36 for a report of a motor vehicle crash and a disturbance involving a firearm. 

 

Upon arrival, officers encountered an individual armed with a handgun. During a confrontation, shots were fired.

 

The suspect was injured and is now in custody. There is no ongoing threat to the public. No officers were injured.

 

Investigators will be on scene overnight, and Highway 20 is expected to open at approximately 8 a.m.

 

The Albany Police Department is leading the investigation. Future updates will be released by the Albany Police Department or the Linn County District Attorney’s Office. 

 

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About the Oregon State Police 

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of nearly 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon. 

Officer Involved Shooting – River Bend County Park – Linn County - 08/03/26

LINN COUNTY, Ore.  (3 August 26) – Highway 20 near River Bend County Park in Linn County is currently closed due to a police investigation. On Monday, August 3, 2026, at 7:25 p.m., Oregon State Police and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office responded to Highway 20 near milepost 36 for a report of a motor vehicle crash and a disturbance involving a firearm. 

 

Upon arrival, officers encountered an individual armed with a handgun. During a confrontation, shots were fired.

 

The suspect was injured and is now in custody. There is no ongoing threat to the public. No officers were injured.

 

Investigators will be on scene overnight, and Highway 20 is expected to open at approximately 8 a.m.

 

The Albany Police Department is leading the investigation. Future updates will be released by the Albany Police Department or the Linn County District Attorney’s Office. 

 

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About the Oregon State Police 

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of nearly 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon. 

UPDATE - Fatal Crash – Highway 226 – Linn County - 08/03/26

UPDATE: Updated to reflect the motorcycle was traveling eastbound. 

 

 

LINN COUNTY, Ore. (3 August 2026) – On Friday, July 31, 2026, at approximately 9:41 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle fatal crash on Highway 226 near milepost 11 in Linn County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Ford 350 pickup truck, operated by Arthur Vernon Roberts (77) of Lebanon, was traveling westbound on Hwy. 226 when it slowed to turn south on Richardson Gap Road and turned into the path of an eastbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Tanner Kolten Henderson (29) of Gates. The motorcycle struck the front end of the pickup truck and the motorcycle and rider landed in the ditch off the roadway. The pickup came to a rest in the roadway blocking the intersection.  

 

The operator of the Harley Davidson (Henderson) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Ford (Roberts) was reportedly not injured, remained on scene, and cooperated with the investigation.

 

The highway was impacted for two hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

The crash remains under investigation, and no further information is available for release at this time.

 

OSP was assisted by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Lebanon Fire District, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

  
 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

UPDATE - Fatal Crash – Highway 226 – Linn County - 08/03/26

UPDATE: Updated to reflect the motorcycle was traveling eastbound. 

 

 

LINN COUNTY, Ore. (3 August 2026) – On Friday, July 31, 2026, at approximately 9:41 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle fatal crash on Highway 226 near milepost 11 in Linn County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Ford 350 pickup truck, operated by Arthur Vernon Roberts (77) of Lebanon, was traveling westbound on Hwy. 226 when it slowed to turn south on Richardson Gap Road and turned into the path of an eastbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Tanner Kolten Henderson (29) of Gates. The motorcycle struck the front end of the pickup truck and the motorcycle and rider landed in the ditch off the roadway. The pickup came to a rest in the roadway blocking the intersection.  

 

The operator of the Harley Davidson (Henderson) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

The operator of the Ford (Roberts) was reportedly not injured, remained on scene, and cooperated with the investigation.

 

The highway was impacted for two hours during the on-scene investigation.

 

The crash remains under investigation, and no further information is available for release at this time.

 

OSP was assisted by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Lebanon Fire District, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

  
 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.