On Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at approximately 11:16 a.m., the Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 101 near milepost 3.5 (Astoria-Megler Bridge) in Clatsop County. The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound 2001 Acura CL, operated by Jean Ormiston (81) of Ocean Park Washington, crossed the centerline for unknown reasons. A northbound 2011 Ford Van, operated by Scott Sargeant (63) of Ilwaco, WA, collided head-on with the Acura. The operator of the Acura (Ormiston), was declared deceased on scene. Two juvenile passengers of the Acura were transported to a local hospital, one with major injuries. The operator of the Ford (Sargeant) and his passenger, Eric Sargeant (62) were transported to a local hospital with minor injuries. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, however, heavy area fog reduced visibility and may have been a contributing factor. Additionally, it was also determined that Ormiston was likely not wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash. The investigation has revealed that the other driver and all involved passengers were likely wearing their seatbelt at the time of the crash. The highway was affected for approximately 4 hours during the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by Washington Department of Transportation, Astoria Fire Department, Astoria Police Department and Oregon Department of Transportation.
