Double Fatal Traffic Crash - Highway 22E west of Gates

OSP troopers are continuing the investigation into the cause of the crash.

Salem-News.com

(GATES, Ore.) - Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers from the Salem Area Command office are continuing the investigation into Saturday evening's two vehicle head-on crash on Highway 22E about a half mile west of Gates. The crash resulted in the death of a man and woman, and non-life threatening injuries to two others, according to a news release issued by OSP.

According to Senior Trooper David Kammerman, on October 15, 2011 at approximately 7:02 p.m. a 1997 Chevrolet pickup driven by 80-year old Lavern G. Ohrt of Gates, was eastbound on Highway 22E near milepost 32 when it crossed into the westbound lane and crashed head-on with a westbound 1992 Buick passenger car driven by 52-year old Alana S. Mankin of Lyons.

Both were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Two passengers in the Buick were transported by ambulance to Santiam Hospital in Stayton with non-life threatening injuries. Their names or ages are not available at this time.

All occupants were using safety restraints.

OSP troopers are continuing the investigation into the cause of the crash. There is no evidence at this time of intoxication. OSP was assisted by Gates Fire Department and ODOT. Linn County Sheriff's Office helped with next of kin notifications,

Highway 22E was closed at the scene in both directions for approximately 3 hours with a detour in place.

Source: Oregon State Police