Preliminary information revealed a 2015 Mack semi-truck towing a chip trailer had been traveling westbound on Highway 20 when it came to a stop in the slow lane, waiting to make a right turn from the highway. The truck had to yield to a passing train, which tracks parallel Highway 20.
While waiting for the train, the truck was rear-ended by a westbound 2005 Dodge Caravan operated by Elmer D FRY, age 80, of Sweet Home. Upon emergency crews arriving on scene, FRY was pronounced deceased. According to witness statements, FRY made no attempts to brake or avoid colliding with the truck. The driver of the Mack truck, Joel P HASS, age 41, of Sheridan, was not injured.
The westbound lanes of Highway 20 were closed for approximately four hours following the crash. OSP was assisted by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Sweet Home Fire Department, Lebanon Fire Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
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