Editor’s note: This report is based on information submitted by the Oregon State Police. All crashes with fatalities may not be included. The status of incidents might change after further investigation.
MONDAY, FEB. 23
• 9:51 a.m. — Troopers responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 22 at the intersection with Highway 51 about 5 miles north of Independence that took the life of Luke Richard Brittan, 68, of Independence. OSP’s preliminary investigation indicated that a westbound Salem-Keizer school bus driven by a 33-year-old Turner woman attempted a left turn onto southbound Highway 51. The school bus entered the path of Brittan’s eastbound Honda Pilot, causing a head-on crash. Brittan was declared deceased at the scene. The school bus driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital. The school bus was occupied by two adults and 30 students. One student suffered a minor injury and was transported to an area hospital. An unsafe left turn is considered the primary cause of the collision. The school bus driver was issued a citation for the unsafe left turn. OSP reported that the investigation is ongoing and will be forwarded to the district attorney when complete for consideration.