Fatal on Hwy. 223, Nov. 17

On November 16, 2016 at about 3:15AM, OSP Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a multiple vehicle crash on Highway 223 near milepost 1 (just north of Dallas). Preliminary investigation revealed a 1999 Toyota Tacoma was traveling southbound on Highway 223 (Kings Valley Highway) when it crossed into the southbound lanes where it struck a northbound 2000 Toyota Corolla head on. After the collision the Corolla left the roadway and rolled down an embankment. The Tacoma came to rest in the highway. A 2006 Kenworth tractor pulling a loaded log trailer had been following the Corolla northbound and swerved to avoid the collision. The truck left the roadway where it came to rest in the ditch. The Corolla driver, Louis A HILDAGO, age 39, of Dallas, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Tacoma, Tad T YOUNG, age 34, of Silverton, received minor injuries and refused medical transport. The driver of the Kenworth, Steven E FOLLETT, age 65, of Philomath was not injured. YOUNG is cooperating with the investigation. Fatigue is being investigated as a contributing factor in the crash. Highway 223 was closed for about seven hours (detour in place) while the investigation was conducted.