Log Truck Driver Dies in Crash Near Vernonia

The driver's juvenile age son was extricated by rescue crews and transported by LifeFlight with serious injuries.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

(VERNONIA, Ore.) - Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation of Thursday afternoon's log-truck involved fatal traffic crash on Highway 47 near Stoney Point Road north of Vernonia. Names are being released following next of kin notification. According to OSP Sergeant Larry Lucas, on July 22, 2010 at approximately 1:15 p.m. a loaded log truck driven by 33-year old Joshua Schultz of Vernonia, was northbound on Highway 47 near Stoney Point Road when, for an unknown reason, it traveled off the highway.

The truck continued for a short distance colliding with a telephone pole and at least one tree before coming to an abrupt stop resulting in the logs shifting forward, crushing the cab with two occupants inside. Joshua Schultz was pronounced deceased at the scene. His son, 10-year old Seth Schultz, was extricated by Vernonia Fire Department personnel and transported by LifeFlight to Legacy Emanuel Hospital in Portland with serious injuries. ODOT was on scene handling highway closure and detour duties. OSP troopers were assisted by Vernonia Police and Fire Departments. No other information available for release. Source: Oregon State Police