On January 17, 2017, at about 10:52 a.m., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a two-vehicle crash on Highway 140 West near milepost 38 (1/2 mile east of Dead Indian Memorial Road). Preliminary investigation revealed that a 1997 Toyota Tacoma pickup, operated by Chu VANG, age 51, and female passenger Pa VANG, age 47, both of Sacramento California, was traveling westbound when it lost control and slid sideways into the path of an eastbound 2008 International box semi-truck, operated by Denny CHOATE, age 38, of Grants Pass. The International impacted the passenger side of the Toyota causing extensive damage. Chu VANG and Pa VANG suffered fatal injuries while CHOATE suffered minor injuries and declined emergency medical care. The roadway was snow-covered, yet was plowed and sanded. Information indicates that speed may have been a contributing factor. Seatbelts were utilized and airbags deployed. Highway 140 West was closed for approximately one hour following the crash. One lane was opened for three hours until both lanes were reopened.
