Oregon State Police to Enhance Highway Patrols Oct. 14-16
OSP’s High Visibility Enforcement Unit will enhance patrols for sporting event and solar eclipse traffic
Salem, Ore. 13 Oct. 2023 – The Oregon State Police (OSP) will be enhancing patrol efforts along Oregon’s highways near Corvallis and areas in the annular solar eclipse viewing area this weekend. Both incidents are expected to bring increased traffic to Oregon’s highways and an increased risk of traffic collisions.
OSP’s presence will be focused on reducing and preventing DUIIs and Fatal-5-related traffic crashes. The Fatal-5 includes violations that are statistically proven to contribute to serious injury and fatal crashes. Categories include:
- Speed
- Occupant Safety
- Lane Usage
- Impaired Driving
- Distracted Driving
OSU Homecoming Game
On Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, Oregon State University will host its annual Homecoming Football game against UCLA. This sell-out game is expected to attract attendees from all over Oregon, as well as out-of-state visitors. Game time is 5 p.m. and heavy traffic is expected three to four hours ahead of the game and for post-game travel. Large amounts of vehicle and foot traffic are also expected in the Corvallis downtown district. Troopers will be concentrating on traffic violations on roadways near the university and augmenting local agencies as needed.
Annular Solar Eclipse
Oregon sits in a prime viewing path for the Oct. 14, 2023, annular solar eclipse (Ring of Fire) which is expected to pass through the state at about 9:19 a.m. Southwest Oregon, including Klamath Lake and Crater Lake, have been identified as two of the premier viewing locations in the nation. The region is expected to see an influx of attendees from across Oregon and out of state for numerous eclipse day viewing events and a multi-day festival in Klamath County. Troopers will be focused on facilitating a safe travel experience for visitors throughout the eclipse weekend with the goal of reducing and preventing Fatal-5-related traffic crashes or crashes resulting from hazardous, reckless, or impaired driving behaviors.
OSP encourages motorists to plan ahead as they get to and from planned destinations and offers the following safety tips:
- Know before you go
- Check road and weather conditions before you leave home.
- Have a map of your destination and share your travel plans with family and friends.
- Be self-sufficient
- Head out with a full tank of gas and fill up along the way.
- Bring water and snacks in case of prolonged highway travel or stops.
- Keep a well-stocked first aid kit in your vehicle.
- Appropriate clothing
- Layer up and have appropriate outwear in case of cold or rainy weather.
- If you’re headed to the annular solar eclipse, protect your eyes with eclipse glasses. Eyes and retinas can be damaged without proper eyewear.
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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.
On Thursday, October 12, 2023, at 1:56 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-361, near milepost 12, in Jefferson County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Toyota Camry, operated by Maria Calderon (54) of Metolius, was traveling southbound when it attempted to negotiate a corner at a high rate of speed. The Toyota crossed the centerline and struck a northbound Ford Focus, operated by Melonie Dawn Aldred (51) of Culver, head on.
The operator of the Toyota (Calderon) was extricated and life flighted with serious injuries.
The operator of the Ford (Aldred) was declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3 hours during the on-scene investigation. This investigation is on-going.
OSP was assisted by Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Madras PD, and ODOT.
On Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at 6:05 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Hwy-138E, near milepost 21, in Douglas County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Ford F-350, operated by Douglas Floyd (70) of Middleton (ID), was traveling westbound when it lost control, left the roadway and struck a tree. The occupants of the vehicle were extricated by first responders and transported to a local hospital.
The operator (Douglas Floyd) was declared deceased after being transported to the hospital.
A passenger in the Ford, Kimberly Colleen Floyd (62) of Middleton (ID), suffered minor injuries.
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Glide Fire, Umpqua Ambulance, and ODOT.
Oregon State Police Intercept Illegal Drugs on I-5
K-9 officers seize 80,000 fentanyl pills, 14 pounds of fentanyl powder, and 92 pounds of cocaine
SALEM, Ore. 13 Oct. 2023 – Recently, Oregon State Police (OSP) K-9 officers have seized significant quantities of illegal drugs bound for distribution. The effort is part of a targeted campaign to intercept these deadly substances before they reach the street.
Traffic stops on I-5, in Linn County, led to the seizure of 80,000 fentanyl pills, 14 pounds of fentanyl powder, and 92 pounds of cocaine within 30 days. During each investigation, as part of the enforcement action, the trooper became suspicious of the occupants’ behavior and obtained lawful authority to search the vehicle.
- On Aug. 29, 2023, at approximately 11:30 a.m., a trooper stopped a vehicle for traffic violations on I-5 north, in Linn County. A search of the vehicle was conducted and the trooper located approximately 70,000 suspected fentanyl pills hidden in a backpack in the vehicle’s trunk.
- On Aug. 31, 2023, at approximately 9:55 a.m., a trooper stopped a vehicle on I-5 north, in Linn County. During a search of the vehicle, the trooper located several packages that contained a total of 14.1 pounds of fentanyl powder.
- On Sept. 28, 2023, a trooper stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation on I-5 north, in Linn County. A K-9 was deployed, alerted to the odor of narcotics and a search warrant for the vehicle was obtained. During the vehicle search more than 10,000 fentanyl pills and 92 pounds of cocaine were seized.
Criminal charges in each case have been referred to the appropriate jurisdiction for prosecution.
OSP reminds the public of the danger of illicit drug use, which is the leading cause of injury deaths in Oregon. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or is in crisis, help is available. Call or text “988” or visit 988lifeline.org to chat. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for free and confidential support.
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About the Oregon State Police K-9 Program
The Oregon State Police K-9 program includes explosives, fish and wildlife, and drug detection K-9s. A variety of dog breeds are included in the program including Blood Hound, Springer Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, and Belgian Malinois. K-9s are selected based on the dog’s personality, high drive, workability, and intense desire for tracking and detection. K-9 teams assist in detecting illegal drugs, recovering stolen property, and arresting wanted persons on Oregon’s highways and in local communities. These teams work closely with other troopers, drug enforcement detectives, as well as city, county, and federal law enforcement agencies.
On Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at 10:31 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle crash on Hwy-42, near milepost 75, in Douglas County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Jeep Cherokee, operated by Peggy Long (52) of Winston, was on Landers Ave stopped at the stop sign. The Jeep turned eastbound onto Hwy-42 and entered the path of a westbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Dustin Kirk Carroll (37) of Roseburg, in the slow lane. The motorcycle struck the side of the Jeep and ejected the rider.
The Harley Davidson operator (Carroll) was declared deceased at the scene.
The Jeep operator (Long) was not injured.
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. The investigation is on-going at this time.
OSP was assisted by Winston PD, Fire District 2, Winston Fire, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and ODOT.
On Sunday, October 8, 2023, at 12:14 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle crash on Hwy-47, near milepost 22.5, in Washington County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Toyota C-HR, operated by Emily Simora (70) of Beaverton, was stopped on Springhill Rd. facing westbound when it turned southbound onto Hwy-47. The Toyota entered the path of a northbound BMW motorcycle, operated by Chris William Garfield (44) of Forest Grove, resulting in a side impact collision.
The operator of the motorcycle (Garfield) was declared deceased at the scene. A passenger, a juvenile female, was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The operator of the Toyota (Simora) was not injured.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3 hours during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Gaston Fire Department, Washington County SO, Forest Grove PD, and ODOT.
On Sunday, October 8, 2023, at 12:23 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on HWY-22, near milepost 23, in Polk County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Ford Mustang was eastbound at a high rate of speed when it lost control, left the highway, and struck an embankment. Both occupants were not wearing seatbelts and were ejected from the vehicle.
David Lee Nelson (55), of Salem, was declared deceased at the scene.
David James Nelson (23), of Salem, suffered minor injury and transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The highway was impacted for approximately 6 hours during the on-scene investigation. At this time, speed and potential impairment are being considered the primary causes of the crash.
OSP was assisted by Salem PD, Polk County Sheriff’s Department, and ODOT.
On Thursday, October 5, 2023, at 9:51 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Hwy-22, near milepost 22, in Polk County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Honda Civic, operated by Abraham Hernandez Perez (19) of Gervais, was traveling eastbound when it struck a pedestrian, Jose Romero Cruz (41) of Dallas, who was in the lane of travel.
The pedestrian (Romero Cruz) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The Honda operator (Hernandez Perez) suffered minor injuries and was transported for medical treatment.
The highway was impacted for approximately 4 hours during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Salem Fire Department, Polk County Medical Examiner’s Office, Polk County District Attorney’s Office, and ODOT.
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Oregon State Police F&W requesting public assistance- Jefferson County (Photo) – 10/09/23
Oregon State Police F&W requesting public assistance- Jefferson County
On Monday, September 11, 2023, Oregon State Troopers responded to the report of a dead buck deer that was found left to waste in the Three Rivers Community, Jefferson County. It was determined the buck deer was shot three times with a bow, two arrows were located still in the buck deer. No meat was salvaged from the buck and the antlers were still attached. The Oregon State Police is requesting the publics assistance with identifying the person(s) responsible for the wasting of the buck deer.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, *OSP (*677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Reference case number SP23-290482.
***Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators***
The Turn in Poachers (TIP) program offers preference points or cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation, to a suspect, for the unlawful killing of wildlife, and or waste of big game. Cash rewards can also be awarded for turning in people who destroy habitat, illegally obtain licenses/tags, and for unlawful lending/borrowing of big game tags. Learn more: https://www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/fw/Pages/tip.aspx
PREFERENCE POINT REWARDS:
* 5 Points-Mountain Sheep
* 5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat
* 5 Points-Moose
* 5 Points-Wolf
* 4 Points-Elk
* 4 Points-Deer
* 4 Points-Antelope
* 4 Points-Bear
* 4 Points-Cougar
Oregon Hunters Association Cash Rewards:
* $2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, and Moose
* $1,000 Elk, Deer, and Antelope
* $600 Bear, Cougar, and Wolf
* $300 Habitat Destruction
* $200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags
* $200 Unlawful Lending/Borrowing Big Game Tag(s)
* $200 Game Birds or Furbearers
* $200 Spotlighting
* $200 Snagging/Attempting to Snag
* $200 Game Fish and Shellfish
Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:
Birds
$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey
All other protected avian species: see category below for listed species
Mammals
$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox
Species listed as “threatened” or “endangered” under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$1,000 (e.g. wolf, wolverine, kit fox, red tree vole, Canada lynx, sea otter, Columbian white-tailed deer, California brown pelican, western snowy plover, California least tern, northern spotted owl, marbled murrelet, short-tailed albatross, streaked horned lark, yellow-billed cuckoo, leatherback sea turtle, olive ridley sea turtle, Oregon spotted frog, green sea turtle, loggerhead sea turtle)
CORRECTION– The operator of the Freightliner, Clayton Grant Kenyon (67) of Washougal (WA), was declared deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Kia, John Walker Yost (51) of Oregon City, suffered minor injuries.
On Monday, October 2, 2023, at approximately 5:20 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-26, near milepost 45.5, in Clackamas County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Kia Soul, operated by John Walker Yost (51) of Oregon City, crossed the center line and struck an eastbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Clayton Grant Kenyon (67) of Washougal (WA). The collision caused the Freightliner to leave the roadway and hit several trees. The Kia spun and came to rest on the shoulder of the roadway.
The operator of the Freightliner (Yost) was declared deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Kia (Kenyon) and passenger, Joshua Allen Anthony (45) of Oregon City, suffered minor injuries.
The highway was impacted for approximately 10 hours during the on-scene investigation. Kenyon remained on scene and was cooperating with investigators.
OSP was assisted by ODOT.
Oregon State Police and Portland Police Bureau Increased Visibility Patrols Pilot Launches
This morning, several members of the Oregon State Police and Portland Police Bureau met for a joint briefing, prior to deploying multiple bike teams in Downtown Portland. These teams went out to provide high-visibility enforcement and enhance public safety in strategic areas of the city – a collaborative effort as a part of Governor Tina Kotek’s directive for Oregon State Police to launch several new fentanyl strategic enforcement and disruption strategies statewide.
The following is a list of actions these teams were able to take on day one: issued controlled substance citations, arrested wanted fugitives, arrested a fentanyl dealer, processed drug evidence, deployed Narcan at least once, and interacted with dozens of downtown Portland business owners and visitors.
The reported actions from day one are an indication of OSP’s commitment to making our communities safer and a single component of our strategic efforts to collaborate across jurisdictions in order to disrupt the distribution and circulation of fentanyl in our communities.
Oregon State Police arrests Connecticut murder suspect- Josephine County
On October 4, 2023, Oregon State Police detectives assisted the Connecticut State Police with locating and apprehending a murder suspect in Josephine County. Christopher Suarez (31) was lodged at the Josephine County Jail on a nationwide warrant for murder related to a Connecticut shooting that occurred in February of 2023.
During the investigation, it was determined Suarez was associated with an illegal marijuana grow in the Merlin area. A search warrant was served on the illegal marijuana grow with assistance from the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office and Josephine County District Attorney’s Office. During the execution of the search warrant, four greenhouses and 796 marijuana plants were located and destroyed. Additionally, six grams of cocaine, three packages of methamphetamine, and unidentified orange pills were located and seized.
Further information is not available for release at this time due to the on-going investigation.
On Friday, September 29, 2023, at approximately 5:40 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on HWY-20, near milepost 92, in Deschutes County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Honda Accord, operated by Timothy Shannon Forgett (57) of Boise (ID), was traveling eastbound when the operator lost control of the vehicle and left the roadway. The vehicle struck a tree on the eastbound shoulder.
The operator (Forgett) was declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Black Butte Fire and ODOT.
UPDATE-
The Oregon State Police major crimes section is providing an update to the active officer involved shooting investigation in Polk County.
The suspect vehicle was occupied by the following:
Isaac Ivan Ocegueda (18) of Carlton- Declared deceased at the scene.
Jose Manuel Coral Zavala (20) of Salem
Female Juvenile (17)
The Polk County Deputy has been identified as Deputy Mike Smith; an 8 year veteran of the agency, who has been placed on administrative leave per SB111 protocols.
During the investigation, limited information is available for release in order to preserve the investigation itself.
OSP Investigating Officer Involved Shooting- Polk County
The Oregon State Police major crimes section is actively investigating an officer involved shooting at the request of the Polk County District Attorney’s Office- in accordance with SB111 protocols.
On Saturday, September 30, at approximately 1:30 A.M., an Independence Police Officer initiated a traffic stop and the suspect vehicle fled. The pursuit ended after officers deployed spike strips, disabling the vehicle, and the suspect fled on foot. Law enforcement officers responded to the area and located the suspect as he attempted to flee the area in another vehicle. The suspect opened fire on responding officers, striking a Polk County Deputy and law enforcement officers discharged their weapons in response.
As a result of the gunfire exchange, one suspect is deceased, another is injured, and the original suspect has been arrested.
There is no reason to believe there is any danger to the public at this time.
Due to the on-going investigation, further details are currently unavailable. All future releases will come from the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.
On Thursday, September 28, 2023, at approximately 8:00 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a crash involving two commercial motor vehicles on Interstate-84, near milepost 226, in Umatilla County.
The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Ruslan Basarab (49) of Renton (WA), was traveling in the slow lane when it struck the rear-end of Peterbilt commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Francisco Rivera Atilano Jr. (20) of Hermiston.
The primary commercial motor vehicle caught fire as a result of the collision and burned so badly it was unidentifiable. The operator was removed from the vehicle and later declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.
The operator of the Peterbilt was not injured.
The highway was impacted for approximately 6 hours during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Umatilla Tribal Police Department, Umatilla Tribal Fire Department, and ODOT.
On Thursday, September 21, 2023, at 4:59 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-34, near milepost 1, in Linn County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Ford Fusion, operated by Jimmie Eugene Beck Jr (19) of Newport, was westbound on Hwy-34 in the fast lane. The Ford left the fast lane, crossing the center turn lane and into the oncoming eastbound lane where it struck a silver Nissan Versa, operated by Jennifer Davina Gere (43) of Lebanon, head-on.
The operator of the Nissan (Gere) was declared deceased, by responding medical personnel, at the scene.
The operator of the Ford (Beck Jr) was extricated from the vehicle and transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis with serious injuries.
The highway was impacted for approximately 6 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
OSP was assisted by the Benton County Sheriff’s Department, Corvallis PD, and Corvallis Fire.
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Multi-Vehicle Crash – Interstate 84 – Umatilla County (Photo) – 09/22/23
Multi-Vehicle Crash – Interstate 84 – Umatilla County
On Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 12:35 PM, Oregon State Troopers from the Pendleton area command responded to a multi-vehicle crash, with at least one commercial motor vehicle fully engulfed in flames, on westbound I-84, near milepost 227.
The Troopers arrived on scene and determined the crash involved at least seventeen separate vehicles. Three of the involved vehicles were completely destroyed by fire; including two Commercial Motor Vehicles and one passenger car.
One motorist was transported to the hospital with serious injuries and life flighted to Kadlec hospital in Washington, while several other motorists suffered minor injuries.
The interstate was closed for approximately 8 hours as the vehicles were removed and the area restored to allow safe travel.
The preliminary investigation determined the contributing factors to the crash were limited visibility due to fog and vehicle speed.
OSP is encouraging motorists to driver slower when visibility is limited or roadway conditions merit reduced speeds.
OSP was assisted by CTUIR PD, Fire, and Ambulance, Pendleton Fire and Ambulance, the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office, Echo Fire Department, and ODOT.
OSP Arrests Sexual Abuse Suspect- Asking Additional Victims to Report – Deschutes County
On Friday, July 14, 2023, Oregon State Police Major Crimes Section initiated an investigation involving sexual abuse occurring at the May Spa on Bellevue Drive within Bend Oregon and the Deschutes County area. The victim reported she had been sexually assaulted by her masseuse during a routine session. Through the course of the investigation, the suspect was identified as Jianming Tang.
On September 15, 2023, an undercover operation occurred with the assistance of the victim and during that investigation detectives established probable cause of the crime of Sexual Abuse in the 3rd Degree. Jianming Tang was arrested and lodged into the Deschutes County Jail.
The Oregon State Police would like to credit the victim for her bravery in participating in the undercover operation. OSP would also like to thank the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement team for their assistance, along with the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office.
OSP understands there may be other victims who have not disclosed similar incidents. To report any related or similar incidents involving the May Spa, please contact the Oregon State Dispatch Center at (541) 726-2525 or *OSP and reference OSP case number SP23-216409.
Due to the on-going investigation and court proceedings, OSP does not have further information to release at this time.
On Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at approximately 7:26 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-97, near milepost 289, in Klamath County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a black Jeep Cherokee, operated by Marci Ann Maples (51) of Klamath Falls, attempted to turn north (left) onto Highway 97 from Keno Worden Road. The Jeep entered the path of a southbound Dodge Ram 1500, operated by Charles Lavern Owens (55) of Los Angeles (CA), and was struck in the driver’s side door. The operator of the Dodge attempted to avoid the collision, but was unable to do so.
The operator of the Jeep (Maples) was life flighted to Sky Lakes Medical Center and was pronounced deceased at the hospital.
The operator of the Dodge (Owens) was transported to Sky Lakes Medical Center via ambulance with minor injuries.
The highway was impacted for 2 hours during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Keno Fire and ODOT.
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OSP F&W asking for public assistance- Hood River County (Photo) – 09/21/23
OSP Fish and Wildlife Division is seeking public assistance in locating the person(s) responsible for the unlawful waste of Deer- Hood River County (Photo)
On September 3, 2023, at about 6:20 P.M., a Trooper responded to a call of a dead buck that was shot and left on Hood River County property not far from Odell, Oregon. A second doe deer, which was also shot and left, was reported that evening in the same area. No meat was salvaged from either deer.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, *OSP (*677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Reference case number SP23-281043.
***Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators***
The Turn in Poachers (TIP) program offers preference points or cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation, to a suspect, for the unlawful killing of wildlife, and or waste of big game. Cash rewards can also be awarded for turning in people who destroy habitat, illegally obtain licenses/tags, and for unlawful lending/borrowing of big game tags. Learn more: https://www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/fw/Pages/tip.aspx
PREFERENCE POINT REWARDS:
* 5 Points-Mountain Sheep
* 5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat
* 5 Points-Moose
* 5 Points-Wolf
* 4 Points-Elk
* 4 Points-Deer
* 4 Points-Antelope
* 4 Points-Bear
* 4 Points-Cougar
Oregon Hunters Association Cash Rewards:
* $2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, and Moose
* $1,000 Elk, Deer, and Antelope
* $600 Bear, Cougar, and Wolf
* $300 Habitat Destruction
* $200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags
* $200 Unlawful Lending/Borrowing Big Game Tag(s)
* $200 Game Birds or Furbearers
* $200 Spotlighting
* $200 Snagging/Attempting to Snag
* $200 Game Fish and Shellfish
Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:
Birds
$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey
All other protected avian species: see category below for listed species
Mammals
$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox
Species listed as “threatened” or “endangered” under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$1,000 (e.g. wolf, wolverine, kit fox, red tree vole, Canada lynx, sea otter, Columbian white-tailed deer, California brown pelican, western snowy plover, California least tern, northern spotted owl, marbled murrelet, short-tailed albatross, streaked horned lark, yellow-billed cuckoo, leatherback sea turtle, olive ridley sea turtle, Oregon spotted frog, green sea turtle, loggerhead sea turtle)
On Monday, September 18, 2023, at approximately 11:38 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 44, in Jackson County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Ford Mustang, operated by Charles Melvin Cole (85) of Central Point, was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of Interstate 5. The Ford struck a Dodge Durango, operated by Carl Melborne Dewitt Jr (67) of Grants Pass, head-on. After the crash, a Dodge ProMaster, operated by Evan Ryle Miller (30) of Bellingham (WA), struck debris and was damaged.
OSP was responding to the report of a wrong way driver approximately 3 minutes prior to the crash being reported.
The operator of the Ford (Cole) was declared deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Dodge Durango (Dewitt Jr) and passenger, Jeffrey Adam Dewitt (43) of Grants Pass, were transported to a local hospital for medical treatment of what is expected to be minor injuries.
The operator of the Dodge ProMaster was not injured.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3.5 hours during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Fire, and ODOT.
On Sunday, September 17, 2023, at approximately 5:40 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle (motorcycle) crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 80, in Josephine County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Caseton Paul Burruss (50) of Eugene, was northbound in the slow lane when it left the roadway and overturned. The operator was thrown from the motorcycle during the crash.
The operator (Burruss) was declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Azalea Fire, Glendale Fire, and ODOT.
On Saturday, September 16, 2023, at approximately 11:54 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 260, in Union County.
The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Volvo commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Victor Lee Jones (62) of St. George (UT), left the roadway, went through an ODOT fence, and struck a tree. The impact caused the Volvo to catch fire and become fully engulfed. The fire spread to a barn and the local fire departments responded to extinguish the fire.
The operator of the Volvo (Jones) was declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
OSP was assisted by La Grande Fire Department, Island city rural fire department, and ODOT.
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Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Interstate-5 Saturation (Photo) – 09/15/23
OREGON STATE POLICE
HIGH VISIBILITY ENFORECEMENT UNIT (HVEU)
Media Release
Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Interstate-5 Saturation
9/15/23
The Oregon State Police will be enhancing our patrol efforts on Interstate 5 from Eugene to Portland, and state highways/public roadways intersecting Corvallis and Eugene on Saturday, September 16. Oregon State University and University of Oregon, both have home football games, which will draw a significant number of motorists to the area and the increased traffic volume comes with an increased risk of traffic collisions. The Oregon State Police will be seeking the public’s assistance in ensuring safe highways for those who are traveling to and from these events, as well as those traveling through the area on other adventures.
Oregon State Police presence will be focused on reducing violations of the Fatal Five categories- Speed, Occupant Safety, Lane Usage, Impaired Driving, and Distracted Driving (SOLID). These violations are statistically proven to contribute to serious injury and fatal crashes. We encourage motorists to plan ahead, in order to avoid the need to rely on excessive speed, use their mobile devices, or operate their vehicles while impaired, in order to get to and from their destinations.
Any media inquiries related to the focused patrol efforts this weekend can be submitted to OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov
On Thursday, September 14, 2023, at approximately 6:41 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single-motorcycle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 134, in Gilliam County.
The preliminary Investigation indicated a Honda Goldwing, operated by Scott Bastin (60) of Simi Valley (CA), was westbound when he traveled out of the lane of travel and onto the inside gravel median for unknown reasons. The Honda continued several hundred feet down the median and struck the cable divider.
The operator (Bastin) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The highway was impacted for approximately 3 hours during the on scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office, North Gilliam County Fire and EMS, and ODOT.
Oregon State Police – Officer-Involved Shooting – Lane County
On Thursday, September 14, at approximately 9:10 A.M., Oregon State Police was notified of an attempt to locate on a stolen vehicle. Troopers located the vehicle in the city of Coburg and attempted to stop the vehicle, and the vehicle fled. A short time later, the vehicle was located at an apartment complex, located at 599 Coburg Rd., by Coburg Police, Lane County Sheriff’s Deputies and Troopers. During the course of the incident, at least one law enforcement officer discharged their duty weapon.
The operator of the stolen vehicle was transported from the scene by ambulance, but later confirmed to be deceased.
At least one officer on scene received non-life-threatening injuries during the incident.
All involved officers have been placed on traumatic event leave as is standard protocol in deadly force incidents.
The Lane County Interagency Deadly Force Investigation Team responded and is investigating the incident. This team is comprised of investigators from numerous agencies and overseen by the Lane County District Attorney’s Office.
Per the standard protocols, all future media releases related to this incident will come from the Lane County District Attorney’s Office.
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Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Mt. Angel (Photo) – 09/14/23
OREGON STATE POLICE
HIGH VISIBILITY ENFORECEMENT UNIT (HVEU)
Media Release
Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Mt. Angel
9/14/23
The Oregon State Police will be enhancing our patrol efforts in Mt. Angel and surrounding highways starting on Thursday, September 14, through Sunday, September 17. Oktoberfest will draw a significant number of motorists to the area and the increased traffic volume comes with an increased risk of traffic collisions. The Oregon State Police will be seeking the public’s assistance in ensuring safe highways for those who are traveling to and from this event, as well as those traveling through the area on other adventures.
Oregon State Police presence will be focused on reducing violations of the Fatal Five categories- Speed, Occupant Safety, Lane Usage, Impaired Driving, and Distracted Driving (SOLID). These violations are statistically proven to contribute to serious injury and fatal crashes. We encourage motorists to plan ahead, in order to avoid the need to rely on excessive speed, use their mobile devices, or operate their vehicles while impaired, in order to get to and from their destinations.
Any media inquiries related to the focused patrol efforts this weekend can be submitted to OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov
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Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Pendleton (Photo) – 09/14/23
OREGON STATE POLICE
HIGH VISIBILITY ENFORECEMENT UNIT (HVEU)
Media Release
Oregon State Police Enhanced Patrols – Pendleton
9/14/23
The Oregon State Police will be enhancing our patrol efforts in the Pendleton area starting on Thursday, September 14, through Sunday, September 17. Troopers will be on foot, bike, and in vehicles. The Pendleton Round-Up will draw a significant number of motorists to the area and the increased traffic volume comes with an increased risk of traffic collisions. The Oregon State Police will be seeking the public’s assistance in ensuring safe highways for those who are traveling to and from this event, as well as those traveling through the area on other adventures.
Oregon State Police presence will be focused on reducing violations of the Fatal Five categories- Speed, Occupant Safety, Lane Usage, Impaired Driving, and Distracted Driving (SOLID). These violations are statistically proven to contribute to serious injury and fatal crashes. We encourage motorists to plan ahead, in order to avoid the need to rely on excessive speed, use their mobile devices, or operate their vehicles while impaired, in order to get to and from their destinations.
Any media inquiries related to the focused patrol efforts this weekend can be submitted to OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov
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OSP asking for public assistance – Columbia County (Photo) – 09/13/23
The Oregon State Police Fish & Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help to identify a person of interest related to a Roosevelt Bull Elk that was unlawfully shot and left to waste on September 13, 2023. This incident occurred between 12:00 A.M. and 4:00 A.M., near Taylor Lane and Battle Creek, on Highway 47, near Mist Oregon. A small, dark colored, loud passenger vehicle was seen fleeing the area northbound on Highway 47.
Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact OSP Senior Trooper Morgan through the Turn in Poachers (TIP) hotline at 1-800-452-7888, or OSP (*677), or his cell phone at 503-396-2408. Please reference case number SP23-293064
** Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators**
The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.
Preference Point Rewards:
* 5 Points-Mountain Sheep
* 5 Points-Mountain Goat
* 5 Points-Moose
* 5 Points-Wolf
* 4 Points-Elk
* 4 Points-Deer
* 4 Points-Antelope
* 4 Points-Bear
* 4 Points-Cougar
The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of Mountain Sheep, Mountain Goat, Moose, Elk, Deer, Antelope, Bear, Cougar, Wolf, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, and Furbearers. Cash rewards can also be awarded for the unlawful take of Game Fish and Shellfish and for Habitat Destruction.
CASH REWARDS:
* $5,000 Mountain Sheep, Mountain Goat and Moose
* $2,000 Elk, Deer and Antelope
* $300 Bear, Cougar and Wolf
* $500 Habitat Destruction
* $500 Upland/Migratory Game Birds
* $500 Game/Marine Fish and Shellfish
* $500 Furbearers
* $500 Spotlighting
* $500 Snagging/Attempt to Snag
* $500 Illegally Obtaining Hunting or Angling License or Tags
* $500 Unlawful Lending/Borrowing Big Game Tag(s)
How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:
TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or *OSP (677)
TIP E-Mail: TIP@state.or.us (Monitored M-F 8:00AM – 5:00PM)
Original Article: Source