On 02/11/2023 at approximately 7:00pm, deputies from the Lane County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a single vehicle traffic crash in the 37100blk of Row River Rd, near the Row River School, Cottage Grove. Preliminary investigation revealed that a silver 1992 Toyota pickup had been traveling westbound on Row River Rd. when it failed to negotiate a curve. The truck slid before rolling over and ejecting a passenger, who was pronounced deceased at the scene. Intoxication does not appear to be a factor in the crash. This investigation is ongoing and the identities of those involved are being withheld at this time. While deputies were investigating the crash, a 1997 Ford pickup driven by 51-year-old Richard Eugene Watkins attempted to drive through the crash scene and nearly struck a patrol car. Deputies contacted Watkins and determined him to be under the influence of alcohol. Watkins was arrested for DUII (LCSO Case #23-0847).
