On May 15, 2016 at about 12:50PM, OSP Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a two vehicle, head-on crash on Highway 194 near milepost 6 (west of Monmouth on Fishback Road). Preliminary investigation revealed a 1997 Dodge Neon was traveling eastbound on Highway 194 (also known as Monmouth Highway) when it crossed the centerline striking a 2006 Dodge pickup head-on. The driver of the Neon, Tara C KADELL, age 30, of Independence, was pronounced deceased on scene. The driver of the pickup, Lacey C MCLAREN, age 23, of Portland, was not injured. Two other passengers, a four year old girl and a six year old girl, were also not injured. It was discovered MCLAREN had a felony warrant for Theft I issued by Linn County Sheriff’s Office. She was arrested and lodged at the Polk County Jail. A male passenger in the pickup, fled the scene prior to law enforcement arriving. He was later identified as Jason Lee GREER, age 33, of Oregon City. It was learned GREER had a misdemeanor warrant for his arrest. At the time of this release, GREER has not been located. Witnesses reported observing the Neon driving at a high rate of speed prior to the crash. Highway 194 was closed for about five hours while the investigation was being conducted. OSP was assisted by Monmouth Fire, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Polk County District Attorney’s Office and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
