Head-on Hwy. 6, Dec. 29

Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers are continuing the investigation into Saturday Evenings two vehicle head-on crash on highway 6 near milepost 10 in Tillamook County. Preliminary investigation indicates that at approximately 8:45 P.M., A 2004 Chevrolet Impala, driven by AMBER R. MAERZ, age 34, from Newberg, was westbound passing another vehicle. Part of the pass occurred in a no passing area (solid yellow centerline). During the pass, the Chevrolet Impala struck an oncoming vehicle, a 1992 Geo Metro, driven by ZACHARY McVAY, age 26, from Tillamook, head-on. There was one passenger in the Geo Metro identified as BRANDY REED, age 21, from Tillamook. After impact, the Geo Metro continued over an embankment south of the roadway and struck a tree coming to rest near the bank of the Wilson River. The Chevrolet Impala came to rest in the eastbound lane of travel facing west. McVay was transported by ambulance to Tillamook Regional Medical Center with serious injuries including head trauma and broken legs. He was later transported to Emanuel Hospital in Portland by ambulance for further treatment due to the extent of his injuries. Reed complained of chest pain and was transported to Tillamook Regional Medical Center by a friend. Maerz also complained of chest pain, but chose not to go to the hospital. Maerz was cited for the crime of Reckless Driving. The highway was closed for approximately 1.5 hours during the investigation.