Fatal Hwy. 20, Sept. 13

On September 11, 2016 at about 9:30 a.m., OSP Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a multiple vehicle crash on Highway 20 near milepost 12.5 (west of Tumalo). Preliminary investigation revealed that a black 2000 Toyota Tacoma, operated by David FINCHER, age 45, of Sherwood, was travelling eastbound when he lost control negotiating a corner and crossed into the oncoming lane of travel. The Tacoma collided with two separate westbound vehicles, a gray 2014 Volkswagen Jetta, operated by Sarah PETERSON, age 37, of Bend, and passengers, female child, age 2, and male child, age 7; and a gray 2016 Dodge Charger, operated by Alexander PERKINS, age 28, of Bend and passenger Ashley PERKINS, age 27, of Bend. The two year old female child passenger suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The remaining occupants were transported to St. Charles Medical Center for treatment of their injuries. FINCHER was arrested and lodged into Deschutes County Jail for Manslaughter 2nd Degree. Additional charges are pending. FINCHER is scheduled to be arraigned in Deschutes County Circuit Court on Monday, September 12th at 1:30 p.m., Highway 20 was closed for approximately three hours following the crash. One lane was opened for two hours until both lanes were reopened. OSP is being assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Deschutes County Rural Fire District and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). OSP is seeking the public assistance for additional witnesses or persons with information. It is believed a bicyclist just west of the crash location, was nearly struck by FINCHER in the moments leading up to the crash. Anyone who knows the identity of the bicyclist or who has additional information of the crash is asked to contact Senior Trooper Jason Hanson at 541-388-6213 or the Oregon State Police Northern Command Center at 503-375-3555 (reference OSP case # SP16308856).