Fatal Hwy. 213, June 29

On June 27, 2017 at approximately 8:30PM, the Oregon State Police and emergency personnel responded to a motor vehicle collision on Highway 213 near S Union Mills Road, in Mulino. Preliminary investigation revealed that a red 2006 custom Bigdog motorcycle, operated by Vincent Michael MERKLEY, age 26 of Molalla was traveling northbound on Highway 213 at a high rate of speed and in a reckless manner, when he rear-ended a silver 2007 Jeep Liberty, operated by Kaelin Craig BENNETT, age 25 of Molalla. Upon impact, MERKLEY was ejected from the Bigdog. The Bigdog came to rest approximately 15-20 feet down an embankment. At the time of the collision, BENNETT was wearing safety restraints; however, witnesses indicated that MERKLEY was not wearing a helmet. MERKLEY was transported by air ambulance to Oregon Health Science University where he succumbed to his injuries. Next of kin notification was made.