Trooper Not at Fault in Collision with Child Stroller‏

Oregon State Police respond to announcement that Lane County DA Office's finds that officer is not at fault.

Salem-News.com

(EUGENE, Ore.) - An Oregon State Police recruit trooper will not be prosecuted in a recent crash involving his patrol car and a baby stroller being pushed across Highway 99 in Junction City one week ago.

Lane County Deputy District Attorney Alex Gardner announced during a news conference today that his office found no fault on the part of Recruit Trooper Clay Core. The announcement came as the independent investigation by Lane County Sheriff's Office is near completion and the one-year old child is home with his mother recuperating after being released from the hospital a couple days ago.

Oregon State Police Spokesman Greg Hastings says they are grateful for the medical response and care given to the child after he was seriously injured. "This care was initiated by Recruit Trooper Core and quickly followed up by Junction City Fire Department personnel, Sacred Heart Hospital, and Doernbecher Children's Hospital."

"Our Department is relieved to know the child's health is improving and he is with his mother and relatives as he is expected to make a full recovery."

Hastings says Oregon State Police also appreciates the hard work and long hours put in by Lane County Sheriff's investigators and Lane County District Attorney's Office to quickly bring to light all the facts related to this investigation.

"Recruit Trooper Core is returning to regular duty. His professional and prompt response after the collision to initiate lifesaving efforts for the child has been recognized by several people who were at the scene. Our Department appreciates the kind comments from local citizens who expressed words of encouragement and support for our officer during this time."

As is standard procedure following any Department-involved traffic crash, an internal review will be completed of this incident.