FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
DATE: July 2, 2026 
CONTACT: Salem Police Communications Office | spdmedia@cityofsalem.net 

Driver Arrested after Four-Vehicle Crash on Center Street Bridge 

SALEM, Ore. -- On July 2, 2026, at approximately 10:18 a.m., officers responded to a report of a four-vehicle crash on the Center Street Bridge, which resulted in a debris field spanning several hundred feet. 

Upon arrival, officers found that one of the individuals involved was transported by medics for evaluation. 

Witnesses reported that Thomas Ewing, 53, of Salem, was reportedly driving recklessly at speeds in excess of 80 mph leading up to the crash. The impact caused his vehicle to slide along the top of the bridge railing before returning to the roadway. 

Ewing was cited for Driving While Suspended (DWS) and lodged at Polk County Jail for Reckless Driving and Reckless Endangering. 

The investigation is ongoing, and further inquiries should be directed to the Polk County District Attorney's Office. 

(PHOTO INCLUDED BELOW) 

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