Salem Teen Victim of Hit and Run Driver

Witnesses described the truck as a 1980's model Ford F150. Different witnesses described the color as light brown, tan or possibly rusty.

Photo and video by Jerry Freeman

(SALEM) - Marion County Deputies are investigating a Friday night hit & run crash that left a Salem teenager in the hospital with serious injuries.

Deputy Stacy Rejaian responded to the call at 7:45pm. The crash occurred in the intersection of Lancaster Drive SE and Durbin Avenue SE in Salem.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a pick up truck driving northbound on Lancaster Drive struck a pedestrian as she was crossing Lancaster from east to west. The pedestrian was crossing with a girlfriend who apparently saw the truck coming and was able to avoid being hit. She was unable to alert the victim in time. Witnesses said it appeared that the truck was accelerating as it went through the intersection, trying to "beat the light".

They also confirmed that the girls were in the crosswalk and had the "walk" signal as they crossed. The driver of the truck continued northbound on Lancaster after hitting the victim.

The victim is identified as 14-year old Kathryn Staudinger of Salem. Staudinger was originally transported to Salem Hospital for treatment, but we have been told that late last evening she was moved to Doernbecher Children's Hospital in Portland. Her last known condition was "serious".

Witnesses described the truck as a 1980's model Ford F150. Different witnesses described the color as light brown, tan or possibly rusty. It had been lifted and had loud exhaust pipes. It should have right front damage.

Deputy Rejaian is continuing her investigation. Anyone with information on this crash can contact her at 503.576.0651 or email her at Srejaian@co.marion.or.us.

Information: Marion County Sheriff's Office