On Friday, December 30, 2022, at approximately 12:55 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 47, near milepost 24, in Washington County. The preliminary investigation indicated a 2001 Chevrolet Suburban, operated by Diego Hernandez (27) of Woodburn, was driving southbound on Hwy 47 near milepost 24. The vehicle left its lane of travel for an unknown reason before hitting a 1998 Ford Ranger, operated by Nathan Pellham (30) of Yamhill, head-on. A passenger in the Ford Ranger, Meliny Fischer (31) of Yamhill, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Pellham was transported to a local hospital for injuries sustained in the crash. Hernandez was provided medical care and arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, Reckless Driving and Reckless Endangering. Additional charges will be considered once the investigation is complete. OSP was assisted by the Washington County Sheriffs’ Office, the Washington County District Attorney, the Washington County Medical Examiner, Gaston Fire, Forest Grove Fire, and ODOT.
