12-Year Old Independence Girl Dies in Crash

12-year old Abigail Thompson, was in the right front seat of the car. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Salem-News.com

(DALLAS, Ore.) - A 12-year old Independence-area girl died Sunday afternoon when the car she was riding in was struck while crossing Highway 223 at Bridgeport Road south of Dallas. The drivers of both vehicles were transported to Dallas Hospital for an evaluation of possible injuries.

Sergeant Dale Young with Oregon State Police says the crash happened today at approximately 12:30 PM, as a 2002 Toyota Corolla four-door driven by 37=year old Roberta Thompson of Independence, was eastbound on Bridgeport Road approaching the intersection with Highway 223, Kings Valley Highway.

According to witnesses, the Toyota failed to come to a complete stop as it continued eastbound across Highway 223. That is when it was struck in the passenger side by a northbound 1998 Dodge 4x4 pickup towing an empty horse trailer. That vehicle was driven by 32-year old Tabitha Bates of Philomath.

The Toyota driver's 12-year old daughter, Abigail Thompson, was seated in the right front seat of the car. She was pronounced dead at the scene. She was using safety restraints.

Both drivers went to Dallas Hospital for evaluation. They were also using safety restraints.

Oregon State Police troopers from the Salem Area Command office are continuing the investigation. Polk County Sheriff's Office, ODOT, Falls City Medix, Polk County Fire and Dallas Fire Departments. Source: Oregon State Police