On Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at approximately 3:26 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on HWY 26, near milepost 64, in Wasco County. The preliminary investigation indicated that due to winter weather, which included snow and strong winds, a large tree fell onto the cab an eastbound Peterbilt commercial motor vehicle, operated by James Darron Lyda (53) of Prineville, causing it to lose control and leave the highway. The lone occupant and operator of the Peterbilt was pronounced deceased at the scene by emergency medical personnel. The highway was closed for approximately 3 hours during the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by Hoodland Fire, Warms Springs Fire, and ODOT.
