On July 23, 2017 at about 3:25 p.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a two-vehicle head-on crash on Hwy 20 near milepost 32.9 (east of Sweet Home). Preliminary investigation revealed that a Red 2003 Kia Spectra, operated by a 17 year old male and passenger, 16 year old male, both from Sweet Home, was traveling westbound on Highway 20 when the Kia crossed into the eastbound lane. The Kia collided nearly head on with an eastbound 2005 Pontiac Grand Am, operated by Francisco RAMOS RIVERA, age 53, and passengers, 7 year old male and 8 year old female, all from Lebanon. Both drivers received serious injuries as a result of the crash and were transported to the hospital for treatment of their injuries. The 16 year old male was not injured and the 7 year old male and an 8 year old female received minor injuries. Highway 20 was closed for about 3.5 hours with a detour in place. OSP was assisted by Sweet Home Police Department, Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), Sweet Home Fire Department and Reach Air Ambulance. OSP is requesting anyone who witnessed the crash or driving behavior contributing to the crash to contact Senior Trooper Oxenrider or Senior Trooper Youngblood at (541) 967-2026. This in an ongoing investigation and more information will be released when available.
