Salem Child Injured in Motorcycle Crash Flown to OHSU

The child suffered serious injuries when he drove onto a street.

90cc Yamaha involved in the incident. Photo: MCSO

(SALEM, Ore.) - A 7-year old Salem boy is being treated at the Oregon Health & Science University Hospital in Portland following a motorcycle-vehicle crash this afternoon.

Marion County Deputy Justin Kinyon received the call of the crash at 5:55pm. Witnesses reported a young child drove a 2000 Yamaha 90cc dirt motorcycle onto the roadway from private property and was struck by a vehicle traveling eastbound on Lakeside Drive.

The child was transported to the Salem Hospital Emergency Room for treatment of serious injuries. He was later flown by helicopter to Portland where his condition is unknown.

Consistent with HIPAA regulations, no further medical information will be released on his condition without the approval of his parent.

Deputy Kinyon's investigation revealed that the driver of a 1990 Toyota pick up truck was traveling at approximately 40mph when the crash occurred.

The child had been riding his motorcycle on property next to the roadway when he suddenly drove into the roadway in front of the truck.

Independent witnesses and the driver of the truck told Kinyon there was no way for the driver to avoid hitting the child.

The driver of the truck is identified as 46-year old Patrick Cauley, of Gervais. There was no indication of driver impairment. Deputy Kinyon will not be charging Cauley with any violations.

Kinyon's investigation determined the child, who was wearing a helmet, had been riding on dirt trails on his grandparent's property. His mother was present when the crash occurred.

The child's identity is being withheld until all family members are contacted.