Two Injured in Head-On Crash Near Corvallis (PHOTOS)

Police say one of the drivers who was fatigued, had sideswiped either the bridge or guardrail coming out of Corvallis prior to the head-on collision.

Photos of crash scene courtesy: Oregon State Police

(CORVALLIS, Ore.) - Police say a serious crash approximately 2 miles east of Corvallis on Highway 34, sent two people to the hospital and required the Jaws of Life for extrication.

Oregon State Police Sergeant Mark Davie says it happened this morning around 8:00 a.m. as a 1999 Toyota Corolla driven by 25-year old Matthew Alexander of Portland, was eastbound on Highway 34 near milepost 2.

Davie said, "Mr. Alexander's vehicle left the eastbound lane, where crossed the center turn lane and crashed head-on into a westbound 1990 Ford Bronco II, driven by 58-year old Janet Smallman of Lebanon."

Both Alexander and Smallman were wearing safety belts at the time of the crash. They were transported to Corvallis Hospital for injuries they sustained in the crash.

Alexander was treated and released with minor injuries. Smallman sustained serious injuries and is currently at the Corvallis Hospital.

"Troopers from the Albany Area Command were able to determine through their investigation that Alexander was fatigued at the time of the crash," Davie said.

"It was determined the Alexander had sideswiped either the bridge or guardrail coming out of Corvallis prior to the head-on collision. Alexander was cited and released for Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangerment, third-degree Assault, second-degree Criminal Mischief and Driving while Suspended."

The westbound lanes of Highway 34 were closed for approximately one hour.

OSP personnel were assisted at the scene by Corvallis Police Department, Corvallis Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.