Passenger killed when SUV hits tree head-on
SCIO, Ore. - A driver lost control of his SUV and crashed head-on into a tree Saturday afternoon.
His wife died as a result of injuries suffered in the crash.
Oregon State Police said Oliver E. James, 79, of Scio was eastbound on Highway 226 when his 1986 Chevy Blazer went off the road and crashed head-on into a tree.
The crash critically injured his wife, Shirley J. James, 76, who was riding in the passenger seat. She was rushed to Salem Hospital by ambulance, where she was later pronounced dead.
Oliver James was taken to Stayton Hospital and later transferred to Oregon Health and Science University in Portland.
Police said the couple were not using seat belts.
Troopers from Albany are continuing the investigation.
My prayers and thoughts go out to this family. Hwy. 226 has taken and keeps on taking peoples lives year by year . It took my five year old daughters dad and our good friend in 2007. God bless. Kathrine Cade