On September 5, 2016, at about 9PM, OSP Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a motor vehicle crash on Highway 26 near milepost 19 (23 miles east of Seaside). While emergency personnel were responding, the driver left the scene by private vehicle. That vehicle was later located by Cannon Beach Police where the driver (now a passenger) of the original crash was found to be in critical condition. That driver, Charles M KAKUSKA, age 22, of Cannon Beach, was taken by ambulance to Providence Seaside Hospital where he later died of his injuries. Preliminary investigation revealed KAKUSKA had been driving a 1990 Honda Accord westbound on Highway 26 when it drifted off the highway and crashed into a ditch. Witnesses had reported seeing KAKUSKA traveling with another vehicle on Highway 26 at a high rate of speed prior to the crash. After the crash and when KAKUSKA learned law enforcement was enroute, he was given a ride from the scene by the driver of the vehicle that also been reported traveling at a high rate of speed. This vehicle was later stopped by Cannon Beach Police. OSP was assisted at the scene by Vine Maple Fire and the Oregon Department of Transportation. OSP is seeking the public assistance for additional witnesses or persons with information. It is believed motorists may have witnessed KAKUSKA’s driving behavior or stopped at the scene of the crash. Anyone with information is asked to contact Trooper Greg Schuerger at 503-861-0781. This is an on-going investigation and no further details are available at this time.
