Fatal Hwy. 140, Sept. 10

On September 7, 2018 at approximately 11:15 A.M. Oregon State Police and emergency personnel responded to a serious injury crash on Hwy 140 near mile post 1. Investigation reveals that a Chevrolet Malibu, operated by Judith ALVAREZ (28) of Klamath Falls, was westbound  crossing over the Klamath River Bridge when for unknown reasons it crossed into the path of a Kenworth cement truck, operated by George COWAN (49) of Klamath Falls.  COWAN attempted to avoid the collision by driving into the bridge barrier,  despite those attempts a near head on collision occurred. An Oregon State Police Detective was in the area, arrived on scene and was able to perform potentially life saving first aid on ALVAREZ before advanced medical assistance could arrive.  ALVAREZ was transported to Sky Lakes Medical Center for life threatening injuries. A small amount of diesel fuel was released into the Klamath River which was cleaned by local authorities. Hwy 140 was closed for approximately 4 hours with 2 additional hours of delays.