IDLEYLD PARK, Ore. – A 34-year-old woman from Grants Pass died in a single-vehicle crash Monday evening on Highway 138 East, according to the Oregon State Police (OSP).
The crash occurred at approximately 6:38 p.m. on April 7, near milepost 28.5, east of Idleyld Park. Authorities said the driver, a 65-year-old man from Merlin, was operating a westbound Chevrolet Tahoe when, for reasons yet to be determined, the vehicle crossed the roadway, veered off the eastbound shoulder, and crashed into a tree.
The passenger, identified as Scoti Allena Hoadley, was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver sustained minor injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
OSP officials stated that the cause of the crash is still under investigation. The highway remained open during the investigation, with the Oregon Department of Transportation providing assistance at the scene.
The incident highlights the importance of seatbelt use and serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of traffic accidents. Authorities are continuing to work to determine the factors that led to the fatal crash.