Crash Near Florence Leaves Woman Critically Injured

Crash scene on Highway 101 near Florence Photos courtesy: Oregon State Police

(FLORENCE) - Oregon State Police troopers are continuing the investigation into a two-vehicle crash Sunday afternoon on Highway 101 about three miles south of Florence. The crash has left one person in critical condition, and troopers are investigating to determine if alcohol was a contributing factor.

Investigators say that at around 12:40 PM Sunday, a 2005 Dodge pickup driven by 53-year old Rodney L. Deris of Florence, was southbound on Highway 101 when it drove off into a ditch on the right shoulder then came back onto the highway and crossed the centerline.

The Dodge pickup crashed nearly head-on with a northbound 1993 Honda Civic four-door.

The Honda's driver, an adult female whose name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin, was seriously injured. She was initially transported to Peace Harbor Hospital in Florence, then transferred by ambulance to Sacred Heart Hospital where she is in critical condition. Police say she was using safety restraints.

Deris was using safety restraints and received minor injuries. He was transported to Peace Harbor Hospital where he was treated and released.

Oregon State Police troopers from Florence and Springfield are continuing the investigation with the assistance of the Lane County District Attorney's Office.

ODOT and local emergency personnel assisted at the scene. Highway 101 was closed at the crash scene for about one hour before being reopened to one lane until about 5:30 PM.