On Monday, August 15, 2022 at approximately 12:58 PM, Oregon State Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle crash on Hwy 199 near milepost 19. Preliminary investigation revealed a southbound Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Richard Gardea (52) of Stockton, California, left the roadway, impacted the guardrail and rolled several times. Gardea was ejected from the vehicle. Just prior to the collision, multiple reports had been received that it was driving recklessly. Gardea was transported to Rogue Regional Hospital with serious injuries. On August 22, 2022, Gardea died as a result of his injuries. Hwy 199 was closed for approximately 1.5 hours. OSP was assisted by AMR, Illinois Valley Fire and ODOT.
