FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
DATE: March 28, 2026 

Salem Traffic Team Arrests Driver After Lancaster Drive NE Fatal Crash Investigation 

SALEM, Ore. — On March 28, 2026, officers arrested Romel Villarreal, 35, of Salem, in connection with a fatal crash that occurred earlier this morning on Lancaster Drive NE. The victim, Daniel Lewis, 54, of Salem, was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

At approximately 3:28 a.m., officers responded to a report of a two-vehicle crash on Lancaster Drive near Weathers Street NE. Upon arrival, officers found a gray Ford Mustang at the scene. The driver, Lewis, was deceased, and a passenger, Kayla Meyer, 31, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to the Salem Hospital. 

Witnesses reported seeing a white Mercedes SUV driving at a high rate of speed prior to crashing into the Mustang. The Mercedes reportedly fled the scene following the crash. 

Officers located the Mercedes and Villarreal a few blocks from the crash site. Villarreal was transported to Salem Hospital for treatment. 

Villarreal was ultimately arrested and lodged at Marion County Jail on multiple charges, including Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Assault in the Third Degree, DUII, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering, and Failure to Perform Duties of a Driver. 

The Salem Police Department has responded to two fatal collisions in 2026, resulting in two fatalities. The investigation is ongoing, and further inquiries should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney's Office. 

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