Propane Tank Ruptured, Jan. 7

On Saturday, January 5, 2019 at approximately 1:28 P.M.  Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a report of a vehicle that crashed into a propane tank at One Stop Market, located on the east side of Hwy 101 near milepost 192. Preliminary investigation revealed that a maroon 1997 Ford Explorer, operated by Buzz Berry (60) of Florence, was southbound on Hwy 101 when the vehicle veered off the roadway, through the fence at 85089 Hwy 101, through trees/shrubs, became airborne, crashed into top of commercial propane tank at One Stop Market gas station, and came to rest in gas station parking lot. Propane tank was ruptured and Hwy 101 had to be shut down until the tank was empty.  Surrounding residences and buildings were evacuated. Hwy 101 was opened at approximately 2:35 P.M. Berry was transported to Florence Peace Health Hospital for minor injuries. Speed and Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (alcohol/marijuana) are being investigated.