On January 9, 10, and 11 the Oregon Fire Instructor's Association [OFIA] will be hosting its Firefighter Safety and Survival Symposium titled "The Art of Survival" at the DPSST training facility in Salem. Instructors from across the Nation will converge and share their wisdom and knowledge base to help create a safer working environment for firefighters.

Annually, more than 100 firefighters die each year in the United States. Add to that the countless thousands that are gravely injured or suffer life-altering exposure to chemicals, toxins, and blood and air-born pathogens.

The Oregon Fire Instructors Association is hosting its second annual Firefighter Safety and Survival Symposium. Last year more than 500 firefighters from eight states attended this conference, making it one of the most successful first year conferences in the fire service, earning the prestigious "Public Safety" Award of Excellence from the Oregon Fire Chief's Association.

The Symposium will be kicked off in the "Hall of Heroes" on Friday at 8:00AM with a full Fire Service Honor Guard ceremony. From there, students will receive the Keynote address from Retired Fire Chief and Editor of Fire Engineering Magazine, Bobby Halton. Next, firefighters will be inspired by CHief Rick Laskey's Pride in Ownership presentation. Friday is capped off with an author's book signing.

Keynote lectures and hands-on "Hot Classes" are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Included in this real life training are modules on Large Area Search, Rapid Intervention, Advanced Fire Behavior, and a Self Contained Breathing Apparatus confidence course.

There is also a scheduled Instructor's Dinner on Saturday PM at the Historic Reed Opera House in Salem. THis is a rare opportunity to chat up-close and personally with many of the Nations most recognized fire service instructors.

For more information and a detailed schedule please go to: http://www.ofiaartofsurvival.com

There will many media opportunities. Please contact event PIO Troy Buzalsky at 503.572.5504. The DPSST is a secured facility and all media must be escorted at all times.


Attached Media Files: Safety Symposium (Large).jpg , Events Poster copy. resize.jpg

Saturday, December 20, 2008, service for OSP Senior Trooper Bill Hakim:

• The Hakim family requests no interviews or videotaping of the family.
• Images taken of the family's back during flag presentations are permitted.
• It is recommended that media arrive at the Salem Armory, by 10:00 a.m.
• Request media vehicles to be marked or have a placard displayed.
• Access to media parking is from Silverton Road and 17th Street. Proceed south-west on Silverton Road, turning south on 17th Street. Media should proceed through the Red Gate. Parking attendants will be present.
• Media parking is on the east side of the Armory Auditorium (see map)
• No fairground access will be available from the corner of Sunnyview and 17th Street. This will be closed beginning at 7:30 a.m., December 20.
• Media staging area inside the Auditorium is on the upper level on the north side of the building (see attached layout).
• There will be a 21-gun salute outside the Armory at approximately 11:45 p.m. Media should consider staging a second camera outside on the north side of the Armory if they wish to record this event.
• Interview requests for VIPs must go through their respective communication offices.
• Interview requests for OSP officials and attendees must be made through Lieutenant Gregg Hastings (contact information below).
• For all other interview requests contact Rich Hoover, Colleen Olson, or Mike Gotterba listed below.
• There will be a procession with road closures following the service. (see map) Media may locate at any appropriate and safe places along the procession route. The reception at the Oregon Department of Public Safety is private. There will be no media access to this event.
• Cancellation notices or changes will be updated at www.oregon.gov/OSP by 9:00 a.m., Saturday, December 20.


Attached Media Files: OSP_Hakim_Parking.pdf , OSP_Hakim_Routemap.pdf , OSP_Hakim_Seatingmap.pdf

Due to Inclement Weather, Saturday's Memorial Procession
for OSP Senior Trooper Bill Hakim is Now Limited to:

• family,
• Oregon State Police,
• Oregon State Fire Marshal,
• Explosives Ordinance Disposal,
• and local fire and police staff vehicles only.

For safety reasons, fire apparatus and other vehicles will not participate in the procession only.

All other personnel may disperse after the memorial service or proceed to the reception at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, 4190 Aumsville Hwy. SE, Salem, Oregon.

The memorial ceremony at the Salem Armory will still be conducted beginning at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 20. 2008.

[Updated advisory for Tennant memorial service media guidelines: Note addition of 21-gun salute, [Bullet number 13)]

Friday, December 19 Service for Woodburn Captain Tom Tennant:

• The Tennant family requests no interviews or videotaping of the family.
• Images taken of the family's back during flag presentations are permitted.
• No media presence will be allowed at the procession staging area at the Woodburn Drag Strip or the Woodburn Police Department.
• NOTICE: Because of the length of the procession and road closures, media that want to videotape both the motorcade procession and the ceremony at the Armory Auditorium will likely need two crews. (see attached map)
• There are several large parking lots on Highway 214 near the bank and on Highway 99E in Woodburn.
• It is recommended that media arrive at the Salem Armory media parking area by 11 a.m.
• The memorial procession is scheduled to arrive at the Salem Armory by 12:00 p.m. This will effectively close access to Armory parking for any other vehicles. If you arrive to park at the Armory AFTER the procession has arrived at the Armory, your vehicle may not be allowed in. This is why we recommend media to be parked in the designated media parking area by 11 a.m. Media vehicles will not be given special traffic preference.
• Request media vehicles to be marked or have a placard displayed.
• Access to media parking is from Silverton Road and 17th Street. Proceed south-west on Silverton Road, turning south on 17th Street. Media should proceed through the Red Gate. Parking attendants will be present.
• Media parking is on the east side of the Armory Auditorium. (see map)
• No fairground access will be available from the corner of Sunnyview and 17th Street. This will be closed beginning at 7:30 a.m., December 19.
• Media staging area inside the Auditorium is on the upper level on the north side of the building. (see attached layout)
• There will be a 21-gun salute outside the Armory at approximately 1:45 p.m. Media should consider staging a second camera outside on the north side of the Armory if they wish to record this event.
• Interview requests for VIPs must go through their respective communication offices.
• Interview requests for OSP attendees must be made through Lieutenant Gregg Hastings. Contact information below.
• For all other interview requests contact Rich Hoover, Colleen Olson, or Mike Gotterba listed below.
• The family requests no media presence at the reception following the memorial service.
• Cancellation notices or changes will be updated at www.oregon.gov/OSP by 9:00 a.m., Friday, December 19.

Friday, December 19 Service for Woodburn Captain Tom Tennant:

• The Tennant family requests no interviews or videotaping of the family.
• Images taken of the family's back during flag presentations are permitted.
• No media presence will be allowed at the procession staging area at the Woodburn Drag Strip or the Woodburn Police Department
• NOTICE: Because of the length of the procession and road closures, media that want to videotape both the motorcade procession and the ceremony at the Armory Auditorium will likely need two crews. (see attached map)
• There are several large parking lots on Highway 214 near the bank and on Highway 99E in Woodburn.
• It is recommended that media arrive at the Salem Armory media parking area by 11 a.m.
• The memorial procession is scheduled to arrive at the Salem Armory by 12:00 p.m. This will effectively close access to Armory parking for any other vehicles. If you arrive to park at the Armory AFTER the procession has arrived at the Armory, your vehicle may not be allowed in. This is why we recommend media to be parked in the designated media parking area by 11 a.m. Media vehicles will not be given special traffic preference.
• Request media vehicles to be marked or have a placard displayed.
• Access to media parking is from Silverton Road and 17th Street. Proceed south-west on Silverton Road, turning south on 17th Street. Media should proceed through the Red Gate. Parking attendants will be present.
• Media parking is on the east side of the Armory Auditorium (see map)
• No fairground access will be available from the corner of Sunnyview and 17th Street. This will be closed beginning at 7:30 a.m., December 19.
• Media staging area inside the Auditorium is on the upper level on the north side of the building. (see attached layout).
• There will be a 21-gun salute outside the Armory at approximately 1:45 p.m.
• Interview requests for VIPs must go through their respective communication offices.
• Interview requests for OSP attendees or officials must be made through Lieutenant Gregg Hastings. Contact information below.
• For all other interview requests contact Rich Hoover, Colleen Olson, or Mike Gotterba listed below.
• The family requests no media presence at the reception following the memorial service.
• Cancellation notices or changes will be updated at www.oregon.gov/OSP by 9:00 a.m., Friday, December 19.


Attached Media Files: MediaFairgroundsRouteMap.pdf , Seating Map WPD.pdf , Woodburn_Procession_route.pdf

(CORRECTED PROCESSION MAP FOR TENNANT PROCESSION from Woodburn to the Salem Armory)

The memorial service for Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, December 19, 2008 at the Salem Armory Auditorium located at the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem Oregon.

Prior to the memorial service, a procession will take place from the Woodburn Drag Strip located at 7730 Highway 219 in Woodburn to the Salem Armory at 2329 17th Street NE in Salem.

Beginning at 10:15 a.m. on Friday, temporary road closures will affect Highway 214 from Woodburn Drag Strip to Highway 99 E and south on Highway 99 E to Lana Avenue NE in Salem. The temporary closures will continue on Silverton Road NE to 17th Street NE.

Please expect delays along this route. Road closures will be removed as soon as the procession has passed.

Captain Tom Tennant, 51, died December 12, 2008, when an explosive device detonated at a Woodburn area bank.


Attached Media Files: Woodburn_Procession_route.pdf

The families of Oregon State Police Senior Trooper Bill Hakim, Woodburn Captain Tom Tennant and Woodburn Police Chief Scott Russell greatly appreciate the outpouring of prayers and support they are receiving from friends and citizens.

Donations in recognition of these Officers may be made at:

Any West Coast Bank branch in the name of:
Bill Hakim Fund
Tom Tennant Fund
Scott Russell Fund

Donations may also be mailed to:
West Coast Bank MS 143
PO Box 827
Salem, OR 97308

Donations may also go to any Wells Fargo Bank branch in the name of:
Bill Hakim Donation Fund
Tom Tennant Donation Fund
Scott Russell Donation Fund


In lieu of flowers, the family of OSP Trooper Bill Hakim requests donations to:
Shriners Hospital for Children
3101 SW Sam Jackson Park Road
Portland, OR 97239.

The memorial service for Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, December 19, 2008 at the Salem Armory Auditorium located at the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem Oregon.

Prior to the memorial service, a procession will take place from the Woodburn Drag Strip located at 7730 Highway 219 in Woodburn to the Salem Armory at 2329 17th Street NE in Salem.

Beginning at 10:15 a.m. on Friday, temporary road closures will affect Highway 214 from Woodburn Drag Strip to Highway 99 E and south on Highway 99 E to Lana Avenue NE in Salem. The temporary closures will continue on Silverton Road NE to 17th Street NE.

Please expect delays along this route. Road closures will be removed as soon as the procession has passed.

Captain Tom Tennant, 51, died December 12, 2008, when an explosive device detonated at a Woodburn area bank.


Attached Media Files: 2008_OSP_Procession_Route.pdf

OSP/Woodburn memorial service arrangements, and other information for Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant and OSP Senior Trooper Bill Hakim are posted on the Oregon State Police website, www.oregon.gov/OSP.

Due to severe weather, schedules and procession plans may change. Check the OSP website often, information is updated regularly.


####

The memorial service for Oregon State Police Senior Trooper Bill Hakim is scheduled for 11:00 a. m., Saturday, December 20, 2008 at the Oregon State Fairgrounds Jackson Armory in Salem Oregon. A memorial procession to the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training will follow the service.

Senior Trooper Hakim, age 51, died December 12, 2008 when an explosive device detonated at a Woodburn area bank. Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant also died and Woodburn Police Chief Scott Russell was critically injured.

Senior Trooper Hakim was assigned to the Arson & Explosives Section as a Hazardous Devices Technician. He is the 28th Oregon State Police trooper to lose his life in the line of duty.

The Jackson Armory is located on the southwest corner of State Fairgrounds property at the intersection of Sunnyview Avenue and 17th Street. A map and driving directions are available at: http://www.oregonstatefair.org/get-here/directions.

Law enforcement agency representatives are asked to call 1-866-677-8738 to confirm attendance.

Media representatives are asked to call 503-934-8217 or 503-934-8251 to confirm attendance and vehicle information for parking needs.

Cards for Senior Trooper Hakim may be sent to 3710 Portland Road NE, Salem, OR 97305.

Condolences may also be directed by email to Jennifer.russell@state.or.us.

As more information becomes available it will be posted on www.oregon.gov/OSP.

A memorial procession and ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday, December 19, 2008 for Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant. The procession ends at the Salem Armory at the state fairgrounds. A memorial service begins at 1:00 p. m. at the Salem Armory, 2320 17th Street NE, Salem, Oregon

The memorial procession will begin at the Woodburn Dragstrip at 10:30 a. m. and take the following route:

Begin on Hwy 214 at the Woodburn Dragstrip
Continues East on Hwy 214 to Hwy 99-E
Turns South onto Hwy 99-E
Continues South on Hwy 99-E to Lana Ave. in Salem
Turns left (East) on Lana Ave.
Continues on Lana Ave. crossing Silverton Road into the state fairgrounds

There will be a reception following the service at the state fairgrounds.

####


Attached Media Files: Woodburn procession-route.pdf

Acting State Fire Marshal Randy Simpson urges everyone to follow a few important fire safety tips to help ensure Christmas trees and other decorations are kept away from sources of heat. From 2003 through 2007 Oregon residential fires related to Christmas trees and decorative lighting resulted in seven injuries and an estimated $1.4 million in property loss. Sources of heat causing these fires included open flames, overloaded wiring, heaters, woodstoves and fireplaces.

"During the holidays, anticipated joy turns to unexpected grief and loss for those hit by residential fires," cautions Simpson. "While people love the smell and look of fresh trees and holiday decorations, this vegetation may become a serious fire hazard. Once ignited, a dry tree may be engulfed by flame in as fast as fifteen seconds and the heat will ignite other items in the room."

Remember these tree care and decoration tips:
• Choose a fresh, healthy tree with a deep-green color and flexible needles.
• Water daily. A tree may consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day.
• Place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source such as a fireplace, woodstove, heating duct or radiator.
• Keep lighted candles away from the tree.
• Use only non-combustible or flame resistant materials to trim a tree.
• Always unplug tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• If using a woodstove or fireplace, keep it screened at all times. Keep ribbons, boughs and other decorative materials at least three feet away.
• After the holiday season, promptly dispose of the tree and other greenery before it dries out. Burning a tree in a stove or fireplace is dangerous; proper disposal includes recycling or pick-up by disposal service.

General fire safety
• Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area and in each bedroom.
• Make a family home fire escape plan and practice it with the whole family.
• Keep escape routes clear of clutter so you can escape quickly in case of fire.

For more information on fire safety go to: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/Home_Fire_Safety_Campaign.shtml.

####


Note: Data furnished by the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal All Incident Reporting System on December 1, 2008. Estimated dollar loss is provided by firefighter on scene and may not reflect actual total loss, insurance settlement or loss of business.

Oregon State Police troopers are continuing the investigation into Saturday afternoon's four vehicle fatal traffic crash that left one person dead and six others injured on Highway 38 east of Scottsburg in Douglas County.

The victim is tentatively identified as HEIDI ROSANNA JOHNSON, age 20, from North Bend. JOHNSON was traveling from North Bend to Springfield where she was a student at Lane Community College. Her dog also died in the crash.

On January 3, 2009 at 2:49 p.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) received a report of a multi-vehicle traffic crash on Highway 38 near milepost 20. Preliminary investigation indicates a Toyota Sequoia driven by JOHN FLAXEL, age 72, from Coos Bay, was westbound on Highway 38 approaching three eastbound vehicles when it crossed the centerline and sideswiped the first vehicle, a Ford F150 pickup, driven by KONRAD W. KENNELLY, age 50, from Port Angeles, Washington.

After sideswiping the pickup, the Toyota continued into the eastbound lane and collided head-on with a Volkswagen Jetta driven by JOHNSON causing it to land off the highway were it caught fire.

A third eastbound vehicle, a Chrysler minivan driven by SHIRLEY A. POWELL, age 59, from Sutherlin, saw the collision and steered to the right to avoid the Toyota. The minivan came to a stop off the highway in a ditch.

The Ford F150 pickup came to a stop overturned in the middle of the highway. KENNELLY and passenger MARTHA XITCO, age 50, from Port Angeles, Washington, received minor injuries and were transported by ambulance to Bay Area Hospital in Reedsport.

JOHN FLAXEL accompanied an OSP trooper to Bay Area Hospital for an evaluation where it was discovered he was bleeding internally. He was transported to a Eugene-area hospital by air ambulance. His passenger/wife, JOY FLAXEL, age unknown, was transported by air ambulance to Sacred Heart Hospital at RiverBend in Eugene.

SHIRLEY POWELL and passenger/husband EVERT POWELL, age 59, were transported with minor injuries by ambulance to Bay Area Hospital.

OSP troopers from the Coos Bay and Roseburg Area Command offices are continuing the investigation with the assistance of an OSP crash reconstructionist. Highway 38 was closed 3 hours before being opened to one lane. Highway conditions were wet.

Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Elkton Fire Department, Scottsburg Fire Department and ODOT assisted at the scene.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 010308.fatal.hwy38mp20.2.jpg , 010308.fatal.hwy38mp20.3.jpg , 010308.fatal.hwy38mp20.1.jpg

Interstate 84 eastbound lanes were closed about three hours Monday morning east of Mosier following multiple ice-related commercial truck crashes including a jackknifed set of double trailers at the Memaloose Rest Area. Highway conditions were icy caused by freezing rain on top of packed snow.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Senior Trooper Michael Holloran, on January 5, 2009 at 4:43 a.m. a commercial truck pulling two semi-trailers was eastbound on Interstate 84 near milepost 72 when the rear trailer started sliding on ice. Driver JAMES T. LEEK, age 52, from Vancouver, Washington, attempted to regain control but all vehicles began to slide sideways and jackknife. The rear trailer rolled on its side onto the center median, and the truck and first trailer came to a stop across the eastbound lanes and shoulder.

The eastbound lanes were closed to avoid further problems and traffic was re-routed through Memaloose Rest Area with help of ODOT sanding equipment.

As the jackknifed vehicles were being removed by a tow company, four unchained commercial trucks slid into each other near milepost 71. The second incident completely closed eastbound lanes for an hour as another OSP trooper helped get the trucks chained up and moving.

The first incident near the rest area was cleared and vehicles moved onto the eastbound shoulder so all lanes could be opened around 8:00 a.m.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 010509.i84mp72.1.JPG , 010509.i84mp72.2.JPG , 010509.i84mp72.3.JPG

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into a single vehicle traffic crash that resulted in the death of an Astoria-area man shortly after midnight on Highway 30 in the Knappa area.

According to OSP Lieutenant Duane Stanton, on January 5, 2009 at 12:03 a.m. police, fire and medical agencies were notified of a single vehicle crash on Highway 30 near milepost 82. Preliminary investigation indicates a 2009 Toyota Tacoma pickup driven by ROBERT JAMES RANKIN, age 21, from Astoria, was eastbound on Hillcrest Loop when it failed to negotiate a curve. The pickup left the roadway, crashed through a guardrail and continued airborne over a 50 foot embankment where it rolled and came to rest on its driver's side onto Highway 30.

RANKIN was pronounced deceased at the scene. Safety restraint use information is not available.

OSP troopers from the Astoria Area Command office are continuing the investigation.

Clatsop County Sheriff's Office, Knappa/Stevenson EMS, Medics, and ODOT assisted at the scene.

Highway 30 was closed about two hours.

No photographs available for release.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into Friday night's two-vehicle crash that resulted in the death of three Parkdale-area women Friday night on Highway 35 about two miles south of Hood River. This tragic crash is a reminder of the dangers when traveling on icy stretches of highway even if the air temperature is above freezing.

According to OSP Sergeant Julie Wilcox, on January 2, 2009 at 8:42 p.m. a 1997 Geo Metro driven by CHEREE CLUFF, age 24, from Parkdale, was southbound on an uphill curve when it slid out of control on black ice. The Geo crossed into the northbound lane and collided with a 2007 Jeep Wrangler driven by VINCENT HOGAN, age 24, from Tacoma, Washington. Both vehicles came to a stop on the northbound side.

CHEREE CLUFF and right front passenger JAN CLUFF, age 16, were pronounced deceased at the scene. Two other passengers, CLARISSA ORTIZ, age 13, from Parkdale, and SHANNON CLUFF, age 13, was transported to Providence Hood River Hospital.

ORTIZ was critically injured and died from those injuries at the hospital.

SHANNON CLUFF was ejected from the car and received non-life threatening injuries.

The three deceased victims were using safety restraints. SHANNON CLUFF was not using safety restraints.

The CLUFF women are sisters and ORTIZ is a friend of SHANNON CLUFF.

None of the four occupants of the Jeep Wrangler were injured. All were using safety restraints. The three passengers are identified as KERRY CAFAZZO, age 22, from Tacoma; JENNIFER BRAVO, age 20, from Puyallup, Washington; and, DYLAN MILLS, age 24, from Fort Lewis, Washington.

Sergeant Wilcox noted OSP troopers were already working several other crashes related to black ice conditions on Interstate 84 at the time of this crash. "Monitor the temperature and remember that ice-related crashes can occur even when the air temperature is well over freezing. Severe black ice conditions were present even with an air temperature of 38 degrees," said Wilcox.

Highway 35 was closed in both directions for three hours.

OSP troopers were assisted by Hood River County Sheriff's Office deputies, Hood River Police Department and ODOT.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 010209.fatalx3.hwy35mp100.1.jpg

A Eugene-area man previously arrested for attempted murder related to a September 2008 incident in which he shot at Lane County sheriff deputies failed to appear last week in Lane County Circuit Court and is now wanted. Neither the suspect, nor his girlfriend who is also wanted on a misdemeanor warrant, has been seen since December 24th. Police and the Lane County District Attorney's Office are asking for the public's help to find them.

NATHAN MILES DIX, age 31, from Springfield, was arrested by Oregon State Police (OSP) detectives November 17th related to an arrest warrant issued following an indictment by a Lane County Grand Jury on two counts of Attempted Murder and one count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon Against a Person. He was lodged in the Lane County Jail where he remained until he was bailed out December 23rd pending a court appearance scheduled for December 29th.

The arrest followed an investigation into a September 1, 2008 incident in which Lane County Sheriff's Office responded to the 100 block of Bauer Lane related to a report of a suicidal person armed with a shotgun. When deputies arrived, DIX exited the home and fired at two deputies in the driveway. The deputies returned fire, striking and injuring DIX. Following the shooting, DIX was transported to Sacred Heart Hospital at RiverBend where he was treated until he was discharged.

DIX failed to appear at the December 29th court appearance and a nationwide felony Fail to Appear warrant was issued for his arrest.

DIX was last scene December 24th with his girlfriend, ANNIE JO WELCH, age 31, who reportedly has an outstanding fail to appear misdemeanor arrest warrant.

On December 30th the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office received a report of a suspicious vehicle parked at the Cape Perpetua Lookout south of Yachats on the central Oregon coast. The 1991 Subaru Legacy four-door, which was reported parked at the lookout for at least four days, is registered to WELCH. Deputies responded to the area, located the car but were unable to locate anyone associated with the vehicle. OSP had the vehicle towed and impounded.

DIX is described as a white male, 5'07", 160 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. DIX has numerous scars and tattoos on his chest, back and arms. His right arm may have limited use because of injuries sustained in the September shooting. DIX should not be approached and is considered possibly armed and dangerous.

WELCH is described as a white female, 5'08", 120 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. WELCH has a tattoo on her right breast displaying clouds and a half moon.

There is no information of any other vehicle that may be associated with DIX or WELCH at this time.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of NATHAN MILES DIX and / or ANNIE JO WELCH is asked to call Oregon State Police Northern Command Center dispatch at 800-452-7888 or their local police department.

The lead investigator is OSP Detective Andy Kenyon.

Photograph Sources: DIX – Lane County Sheriff's Office
WELCH – Oregon DMV

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: dix.jpg , Welch.Annie.Jo.JPG

A 16-year old Redmond-area girl died Friday morning after losing control of her pickup and colliding with another pickup on Highway 97 about eight miles north of Bend. A third pickup was involved in the crash but its driver was not injured.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Sergeant Chris Seber, on January 2, 2009 at approximately 7:35 a.m. a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado pickup driven by SHALAE RAE MORTENSON, age 16, from Redmond, was northbound on Highway 97 near milepost 127 when it lost control during icy highway conditions. The pickup spun counter-clockwise across the center median into the southbound lanes where it was struck in the passenger side by a southbound 2003 Chevrolet Silverado pickup driven by JOSE ALEX MENDOZA, age 33, from Terrebonne. After the initial collision, a southbound 2007 Ford F150 pickup driven by RANDALL S. BURCHAM, age 46, from Terrebonne, crashed into the back of MENDOZA's pickup.

MORTENSON was pronounced deceased at the scene. She was using safety restraints.

MENDOZA was seriously injured and transported by air ambulance to St. Charles Medical Center in Bend. He was using safety restraints and his pickup's airbags deployed.

BURCHAM was not injured. He was using safety restraints and his pickup's airbags deployed.

OSP troopers from the Bend Area Command office are continuing the investigation. Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, Redmond Police Department, Redmond Ambulance, and ODOT assisted at the scene.

All lanes were closed for about two hours before one lane was open in both directions using the northbound lanes.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 010209.fatalhwy97mp127.1.JPG , 010209.fatalhwy97mp127.3.JPG , 010209.fatalhwy97mp127.4.JPG , 010209.fatalhwy97mp127.2.JPG

ODOT personnel were on scene Friday morning assessing the large slide blocking all lanes of Highway 26 about eight miles east of Sandy near milepost 34. The mud slide and debris is now estimated to be up to 2 feet deep and over 200 yards in width. Approximately 300 feet of guardrail was damaged on the east end as mud, trees and debris flowed across from the south side of the highway.

On January 1, 2009 at approximately 10:24 p.m. reports were received of the mud slide that came from the south side of Highway 26 between milepost 34 and 35. Two vehicles were reported to be on the east end of the slide area. The vehicles have been removed and no injuries were reported.

ODOT has established a detour which will probably be in place for a couple days. Travelers need to pay attention for the signs posted prior to Sandy and at the east end of the town advising of the closure and detour.

The detour will use Ten Eyck Road on the east end of Sandy, Marmot Road and Sleepy Hollow Road in the Brightwood area. Motorists traveling between the Portland area to central Oregon may also consider using Interstate 84 to Highway 197 or Highway 97.

Traffic update information will be posted on ODOT's website at www.TripCheck.com . Questions should be directed to ODOT.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 010209.hwy26mp34slide.1.JPG , 010209.hwy26mp34slide.2.JPG , 010209.hwy26mp34slide.3.JPG , 010209.hwy26mp34slide.4.JPG , 010209.hwy26mp34slide.5.JPG

Preliminary reporting of DUII arrests by Oregon State Police shows troopers arrested 52 DUII drivers December 31st through 8:00 a.m., January 1st. Troopers reported 81 DUII arrests during last year's 78-hour official reporting period. Updated holiday-related fatal traffic crash, DUII arrests, and other enforcement related statistics over this year's 102-hour national reporting period will be provided by Monday afternoon, January 5th.

OSP, county sheriff departments, city police agencies and ODOT continue to stress to drive safely and not impaired during the extended New Year's holiday weekend running through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, January 4th. During last year's 78-hour New Year's holiday period, four people died in four separate traffic crashes on Oregon roads. An average of more than five fatalities has happened each year over this holiday period during the last ten years. Troopers did not investigate any fatal traffic crashes over New Year's Eve night.

A NHTSA national study released last year showed the daily death toll from impaired driving crashes during the Christmas and New Year's holiday periods is significantly more than for the rest of the year. The report showed from 2001 - 2005, an average of 36 fatalities occurred per day on America's roadways as a result of crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver. That number increased to 45 per day during the Christmas period and to 54 per day over the New Year's holiday.

Oregon law enforcement agencies and ODOT urge holiday travelers to remember these tips:

* Don't drink and drive ("Buzzed driving is drunk driving"), and don't ride with anyone who has had too much to drink.
* Never use illegal drugs.
* Volunteer to be a designated driver.
* If someone who's been drinking insists on driving, take his/her keys.
* If hosting a gathering, provide non-alcoholic beverages.
* Use public transit or local drive-home services provided by taxis and other companies.
* Always use safety restraints.
* Avoid travel after midnight, especially on weekends or holidays.
* Drive defensively at all times.
* Report any suspected impaired driving by calling 1-800-24DRUNK (800-243-7865) or
9-1-1.

Oregon public safety responders ask everyone to think of the safety of emergency responders working everyday and to remember we have a "Move Over Law." It states if you are driving up behind any type of police car or emergency vehicle pulled over on the roadside with emergency lights flashing, you must:

* Move over into another lane.
* If you can't safely change lanes, slow down.
* In all cases, the driver must try to provide as much room as possible for the emergency vehicle.

Road and weather condition are changing, sometimes without little warning, so keep up on current information at ODOT's website www.tripcheck.com. TripCheck is a one-stop shop for information on traveling in Oregon, with the latest conditions via road cameras, continuous winter travel updates, year-round highway construction details, and other valuable tips to get you to and from your favorite places in Oregon via air, bus, rail, or ride share.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

An Oregon State Police traffic stop in the Bend area Monday night led to the arrest of two men following the discovery of approximately 8 pounds of marijuana.

According to Oregon State Police Lieutenant Carl Rhodes, on December 29, 2008 at approximately 10:35 p.m. an OSP trooper stopped a northbound 2002 Ford F250 pickup registered out of California on Highway 97 south of Bend near milepost 143 for a traffic violation. Subsequent to the stop the trooper smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. Investigative efforts during the course of the traffic stop led to the discovery of approximately 8 pounds of marijuana in the pickup worth an estimated value of near $25,000.

The pickup's two occupants were arrested. They are identified as driver IAN GONZALES, age 36, from Orick, California, and passenger DREW WASSERBURGER, age 34, from Boise, Idaho.

Both men were lodged in Deschutes County Jail for felony Unlawful Possession, Distribution, and Manufacturing of Marijuana.

The investigation is continuing.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 122908.hwy97mj1.jpg , 122908.hwy97mj2.jpg

Douglas County area law enforcement agencies are teaming together New Year's Eve night in a multi-agency DUII enforcement crackdown to find and remove intoxicated drivers from area roads. Oregon State Police, Roseburg Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Winston Police Department, and Sutherlin Police Department will focus on Interstate 5 and area roads with the assistance of the Mobile DUII Processing Center (MDPC) motorhome.

According to Oregon State Police Sergeant Steve Mitchell, the MDPC will assist the multi-agency enforcement starting Wednesday night, December 31st, through Thursday morning, January 1st. The MDPC helps police officers process arrested DUII drivers and get them back out on the road sooner looking for the other impaired drivers.

"Planning ahead, stepping up to be a designated driver, and being on the lookout for intoxicated drivers will help you and others on our area roads," said Mitchell.

A national study released last year by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed the daily death toll from impaired driving crashes during the Christmas and New Year's holiday periods is significantly more than for the rest of the year. The report showed from 2001 - 2005, an average of 36 fatalities occurred per day on America's roadways as a result of crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver. That number increased to 45 per day during the Christmas period and to 54 per day over the New Year's holiday.

Douglas County-area law enforcement agencies, ODOT, Douglas County District Attorney's Office and Douglas County Traffic Safety Commission urge holiday travelers and those planning on going out tonight to remember these tips:

* Don't drink and drive, and don't ride with anyone who has had too much to drink.
* Never use illegal drugs.
* Volunteer to be a designated driver.
* If someone who has been drinking insists on driving, take his/her keys.
* If hosting a gathering, provide non-alcoholic beverages.
* Always use safety restraints.
* Avoid travel after midnight, especially on weekends or holidays.
* Drive defensively at all times.
* Report any suspected impaired driver by calling 9-1-1 or 1-800-24DRUNK (1-800-243-7865).

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

A Prineville-area man died and his wife was injured Tuesday afternoon when their pickup traveled off Highway 97 about twelve miles north of Klamath Falls and rolled down an embankment.

According to Oregon State Police Trooper Patrick Irish, on December 30, 2008 at approximately 2:45 p.m. a 1996 Dodge Ram pickup driven by AL LENNON NEVILLE, age 84, from Prineville, was northbound on Highway 97 near milepost 260 when, for an unknown reason, it drove across the southbound lane and off the opposite shoulder. The pickup traveled down the embankment and rolled, coming to rest on its top about 40 feet from the highway near railroad tracks.

AL NEVILLE was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was using safety restraints and the pickup's airbags deployed.

His wife, CLARA BELLE NEVILLE, age 79, was using safety restraints and received non-life threatening injuries. She was transported by ambulance to Sky Lakes Medical Center in Klamath Falls.

Oregon State Police troopers from the Klamath Falls Area Command office are continuing the investigation. ODOT, Klamath County Fire District, and Union Pacific Railroad law enforcement personnel assisted at the scene.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 123008.fatal.hwy97mp260.2.jpg , 123008.fatal.hwy97mp260.3.jpg

Even though the snow and ice has mostly disappeared, a crash early Tuesday morning is a reminder of the need to watch for highway maintenance workers and vehicles as they work to keep our area roads safe to travel on.

On December 30, 2008 at approximately 3:47 a.m. three ODOT maintenance vehicles were involved in sweeping loose sanding material in the far right southbound lane of Interstate 5 near milepost 286 north of Wilsonville. An ODOT dump truck operated by KENTON W. BRENNER, age 53, was at the rear of the slow-moving maintenance vehicles with flashing amber lights and directional arrows displayed to move rear approaching traffic to the center and left southbound lanes.

The driver of an approaching commercial truck was distracted and looked down to pick up a dropped object. When truck's driver looked up he noticed the ODOT vehicles and swerved to the left. The right rear side of the semi-trailer sideswiped the ODOT dump truck's left rear corner.

The truck's driver, ROBERT F. BUTLER, age 62, from Salem, kept control of his truck and came to a stop. No one was injured.

Oregon State Police Recruit Trooper Tyler Bechtel cited BUTLER for Careless Driving.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 123008i5mp286odot4.JPG , 123008i5mp286odot3.JPG , 123008i5mp286odot2.JPG

Oregon State Police (OSP) Superintendent Timothy McLain will open the New Year by swearing in 17 newly hired recruit troopers Sunday, January 4th, starting their new careers to serve communities and help protect the citizens of Oregon.

On January 4, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. before family and friends at the Oregon Public Safety Academy Hall of Heroes in Salem, each recruit will take their oath of office beginning 25 weeks of intensive academy-based training. Following four weeks of OSP specific training, each recruit trooper will continue their training during the 16-week Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) program with other agency recruits. Upon successful completion of the DPSST training program, they will move through an advanced-DPSST five week training program unique to OSP requirements.

"Since July 2007 our Department has been able to fill vacant positions and recent authorized new positions by hiring and retaining over 110 recruit troopers," said Superintendent McLain. "These seventeen individuals are part of the approved staffing increases supported by Governor Kulongoski and legislative leadership during the 2007 session. We will continue to carefully manage future hiring in light of the current economic situation while responsibly managing our budget and resources."

The 17 recruit troopers range in age from 21 to 39 (averaging 27 years old) and come from a wide range of life experiences and backgrounds. Four have law enforcement experience including one individual who is returning home to Oregon after working as a South Carolina Highway Patrol Trooper. Nine individuals have military backgrounds.

The fifteen men and two women will be assigned to the Patrol Services Division. After successfully completing their training the recruit troopers are assigned to report at the following locations:

* Albany
* Bend
* Burns
* Capitol Mall – Salem (2)
* Central Point
* Klamath Falls
* Newport
* Oakridge
* Ontario
* Portland
* Salem
* Springfield (2)
* St. Helens
* Tillamook (2)

OSP has scheduled one more Entry Level Testing opportunity for February 7 – 8, 2009 in Canby. Information about OSP recruiting efforts is available on our recruitment website at www.OSPTrooper.com where prospective applicants can find more information and an online application.

New applicants are required to participate in Entry Level Testing that includes a physical fitness test consisting of push-ups, sit-ups and a two-mile timed run. (Refer to OSP recruiting website for specifics and standards for passing.) Applicants, who successfully complete the physical fitness tests, proceed to take a written test to evaluate basic educational competencies. Applicants passing the written test are invited to take an aptitude test and begin the background investigation process.

Anyone interested in becoming an Oregon State Police Trooper may obtain more information on the OSP recruiting website at www.OSPTrooper.com.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 030708.advrctgrad.2.JPG , OSP_SEAL_s.jpg , motors2.jpg , osp.crashscene.helo.1.JPG

Preliminary information for this year's 102-hour Christmas holiday period indicates traffic fatalities were slightly higher and Oregon State Police (OSP) DUII arrests equaled last year's figures in Oregon.

Known fatal traffic crashes investigated by Oregon law enforcement agencies between 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 24th, through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, December 28th, reflects five people were killed in five separate traffic crashes. During last year's Christmas holiday period, two people were killed in two separate crashes. According to ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) statistics, an average of 4 fatalities have occurred each year over this holiday period during the last ten years.

The following is a brief review of this year's Christmas holiday period known traffic fatalities:

* On December 24th at 6:30 p.m. a 21-year old Shady Cove man died in a single vehicle crash on Highway 234 northeast of Gold Hill. Speed and alcohol are possible contributing factors. Oregon State Police is the lead investigating agency.
* On December 25th at 1:53 p.m. a 68-year old Fairview man reportedly suffered a heart attack and crashed into a telephone pole on a Gresham street. The victim was pronounced deceased after arriving at an area hospital. Gresham Police Department is the lead investigating agency.
* On December 26th at 10:00 p.m. a 57-year old Milwaukie man was struck by a vehicle trying to cross Highway 99E north of Gladstone. The victim died the next morning at a Portland-area hospital. Alcohol, limited visibility and unlawful attempting to cross the highway are contributing factors. Oregon State Police is the lead investigating agency.
* On December 27th at 7:15 p.m. a 25-year old Corvallis woman was a passenger in a car involved in a two-vehicle crash on Highway 101 north of Seal Rock. She died after arriving at a Newport-area hospital. Oregon State Police is the lead investigating agency.
* On December 28th at approximately 2:45 a.m. a commercial tanker truck and tanker trailer drove off southbound Interstate 5 near milepost 283, crashed and caught fire. The vehicle was destroyed and the remains of a 56-year old male driver from Scappoose were found in the burned wreckage.

OSP preliminary DUII enforcement statistics shows troopers arrested 50 impaired drivers. State troopers arrested nearly 50 DUII drivers last year and 59 DUII drivers during the 2006 Christmas holiday period.

The OSP Bend Area Command office reported 9 DUII arrests, followed by OSP offices in Portland and Central Point areas each with 8 DUII arrests. Six of the OSP Central Point office arrests were on Saturday. The Springfield OSP office reported 6 DUII arrests; the OSP Salem office reported 5 DUII arrests; and, OSP offices in Klamath Falls and Roseburg each reported 4 DUII arrests. The four DUII arrests reported by the Klamath Falls OSP office happened Friday night / Saturday morning as part of an interagency DUII enforcement effort involving OSP, Klamath County Sheriff's Office and Klamath Falls Police Department.

One unusual DUII arrest of note occurred December 26th in central Oregon following a report of a traffic crash in the Crooked River Ranch area. Upon arrival the trooper determined a vehicle had only slid off the highway and was occupied by a 54-year old Redmond woman and a dog. The woman was transported to St. Charles Medical Center in Redmond where a preliminary blood test showed her blood alcohol level was .469 percent, nearly six times the legal .08 limit in every state. She was cited to appear on the DUII charge.

OSP, county sheriff departments, city police agencies and ODOT are preparing for the upcoming extended New Year's holiday weekend starting 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 31st, through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, January 4th. During last year's 78-hour New Year's holiday period, four people died in four separate traffic crashes on Oregon roads. According to FARS, an average of more than five fatalities has happened each year over this holiday period during the last ten years.

A NHTSA national study released last year showed the daily death toll from impaired driving crashes during the Christmas and New Year's holiday periods is significantly more than for the rest of the year. The report showed from 2001 - 2005, an average of 36 fatalities occurred per day on America's roadways as a result of crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver. That number increased to 45 per day during the Christmas period and to 54 per day over the New Year's holiday.

Oregon law enforcement agencies and ODOT urge holiday travelers to remember these tips:

* Don't drink and drive ("Buzzed driving is drunk driving"), and don't ride with anyone who has had too much to drink.
* Never use illegal drugs.
* Volunteer to be a designated driver.
* If someone who's been drinking insists on driving, take his/her keys.
* If hosting a gathering, provide non-alcoholic beverages.
* Use public transit or local drive-home services provided by taxis and other companies.
* Always use safety restraints.
* Avoid travel after midnight, especially on weekends or holidays.
* Drive defensively at all times.
* Report any suspected impaired driving by calling 1-800-24DRUNK (800-243-7865) or
9-1-1.

Oregon public safety responders ask everyone to think of the safety of emergency responders working everyday and to remember we have a "Move Over Law." It states if you are driving up behind any type of police car or emergency vehicle pulled over on the roadside with emergency lights flashing, you must:

* Move over into another lane.
* If you can't safely change lanes, slow down.
* In all cases, the driver must try to provide as much room as possible for the emergency vehicle.

For more information about the national effort against impaired driving, visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

The above links are to two photographs taken at the scene of Sunday morning's fatal commercial tanker truck crash southbound Interstate 5 near milepost 283.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 122808.fatal.i5mp283.2.jpg , 122808.fatal.i5mp283.1.jpg

Oregon State Police troopers investigating Sunday morning's commercial truck crash and tanker fire have completed the on scene investigation and tentatively identified the lone victim. Next of kin have been notified. ODOT personnel will remain on scene to help coordinate wreckage removal while the southbound on ramp from Wilsonville will remain closed until completed.

On December 28, 2008 at approximately 2:45 a.m. a report was received of an explosion near Interstate 5 in the south Wilsonville area. Fire personnel from Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue (TVFR) responded and found a commercial tanker truck and trailer fully engulfed about 70 feet west of the southbound lanes near trees. TVFR pulled back from the fire and let it burn until it was safe to approach and extinguish it. Some trees in the area caught fire.

Oregon State Police (OSP), Clackamas County Sheriff's Office and ODOT personnel responded. Freeway traffic was closed in both directions with a detour established for approximately 5 1/2 hours. One southbound lane remained closed and will be re-opened shortly.

After the fire was extinguished and the crash scene determined safe for troopers to begin investigating, the partial remains of the driver was found in the overturned truck. With the assistance of Reinhard Petroleum LLC company representatives, the victim is tentatively identified as WILLIAM NEIL ADAMS, age 56, from Scappoose.

ADAMS was reportedly operating a tanker truck pulling a tanker trailer loaded with approximately 10,000 gallons of unleaded gasoline. The tankers were loaded at the Highway 30 fuel terminal in Linton and enroute to Salem.

The preliminary investigation indicates the commercial tanker truck and tanker trailer were southbound when, for an unknown reason, it drifted onto the right shoulder and onto an ice berm. The truck and trailer continued approximately 70 feet off the freeway and overturned, catching fire. The tanker truck and tanker trailer were extensively damaged by the fire.

OSP troopers from the Portland and Tualatin offices are continuing the investigation. TVFR, ODOT, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, and Clackamas County Medical Examiner's Office assisted at the scene.

Questions regarding fire response should be directed to TVFR.

Photographs will be forwarded when available.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Oregon State Police troopers investigating Sunday morning's commercial truck crash and tanker fire have confirmed this as a fatality following the discovery of remains at the crash scene. The victim has been tentatively identified but the name and other information is withheld pending next of kin notification. Troopers, fire personnel and ODOT are still on scene.

On December 28, 2008 at approximately 2:45 a.m. a report was received of an explosion near Interstate 5 in the south Wilsonville area. Fire personnel from Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue (TVFR) responded and found a commercial tanker truck fully engulfed about 70 feet west of the southbound lanes near trees.

Oregon State Police (OSP), Clackamas County Sheriff's Office and ODOT personnel responded. Freeway traffic was closed in both directions with a detour established for approximately 5 1/2 hours. TVFR pulled back from the fire and let it burn until it was safe to approach and extinguish it. Some trees in the area caught fire.

The involved truck and two tankers were registered to Reinhard Petroleum. Company representatives are on scene assisting.

No more information available for release. Questions regarding fire response should be directed to TVFR.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

A Corvallis-area woman died and four other people were injured Saturday evening in a two vehicle crash on Highway 101 near Seal Rock in Lincoln County.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Senior Trooper Greg Plummer, on December 27, 2008 at approximately 7:15 p.m. a 1998 Toyota Camry driven by SANGEET KUMAR LAL, age 29, from Corvallis, was northbound on Highway 101 near milepost 149. As the Toyota was negotiating a downhill sharp right curve the right side tires left the roadway. LAL overcorrected and the car spun across the southbound lane, striking a guardrail and continued to spin out of control. The Toyota was struck in the rear by a southbound 1996 Ford Econoline van driven by DOUGLAS M. HOWARD, age 52, from Battle Ground, Washington.

Five people were transported by ambulance to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital in Newport. All were using safety restraints and the Ford van's airbags deployed.

The Toyota's left rear passenger, GAYATRI SHRIVASTAVA, age 25, from Corvallis, died after arriving at the hospital.

LAL received serious injuries and was transferred by ambulance to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis for further treatment.

Two other Toyota passengers received minor injuries. They are identified as right front passenger ARNAB MUKHERJEE, age 29, from Baltimore, Maryland, and right rear passenger MRINMOY SAHA, age 23, from Corvallis.

HOWARD received minor injuries.

OSP troopers from the Newport Area Command office are continuing the investigation. Seal Rock Fire and Rescue, Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT assisted at the scene. Highway 101 was closed and traffic diverted for approximately four hours.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 122708.fatal.hwy101mp149.3.JPG , 122708.fatal.hwy101mp149.1.JPG , 122708.fatal.hwy101mp149.2.JPG

A Milwaukie-area man died Saturday morning following a Friday night crash on Highway 99E north of Gladstone when he was struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross the highway on foot.

According to Oregon State Police Trooper Ryan Tellier, on December 26, 2008 at approximately 10:00 p.m. ARNULFO ESPINOSA BORBON, age 57, from Milwaukie, was attempting to cross from the east side of Highway 99E to the west side on foot near S.E. Vineyard Road when he was struck in the left northbound lane by a 1996 Chevrolet two-door.

BORBON was critically injured and transported by AMR ambulance to Oregon Health Sciences University. According to hospital officials, BORBON died Saturday morning. Alcohol, limited visibility and unlawfully attempting to cross the highway were contributing factors.

The car's driver, CODIE NICHOLAS PHILO, age 21, from Gladstone, was using safety restraints and not injured.

Oregon State Police troopers from the Portland Area Command office are completing the investigation. No citations will be issued.

Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, ODOT, and Clackamas County Fire District I assisted at the scene.

No photograph available for release.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

A Shady Cove man died Wednesday evening in a single vehicle crash on Highway 234 northeast of Gold Hill near the intersection with Tresham Lane when he lost control of his vehicle and it rolled. A dog in the car also died as a result of the crash.

According to Oregon State Police Sergeant Tanya Henderson, sn December 24, 2008 at approximately 6:30 p.m., a Chevrolet Monte Carlo driven by CASEY CATE, age 21, from Shady Cover, was eastbound on Highway 234 near milepost 9 when it lost control. The car left the roadway, hit a ditch and rolled ejecting CATE.

CATE was pronounced deceased at the scene. A dog in the car was also ejected and died.

The initial investigation indicates speed and alcohol are possible contributing factors. Troopers believe CATE was not using safety restraints.

Oregon State Police troopers from the Central Point Area Command office are completing the investigation. Jackson County Fire District 3, Mercy Flights Ambulance, ODOT and Twedell's Towing assisted at the scene.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 122408.fatal.hwy234.1.jpg , 122408.fatal.hwy234.4.jpg

An unoccupied Oregon State Police (OSP) patrol car was damaged Tuesday after it was struck by a sliding semi-trailer on the on ramp to Interstate 205 northbound from Lawnfield Road. This is the third OSP patrol car struck this week as troopers work at crash scenes or assist motorists needing help during the current winter conditions.

On December 23, 2008 at 11:24 a.m. OSP Senior Trooper Jim Neufeldt stopped on the right side of the Interstate 205 on ramp curve to assist a pickup. As the trooper was outside the patrol car, a 2009 Freightliner pulling a semi-trailer operated by ARTHUR J. PATTERSON, age 62, from Rainier, Washington, was approaching the scene and attempted to slow down. The semi-trailer slid the side and crashed into the rear portion of the passenger compartment, breaking out the rear window and causing minor body damage.

The on ramp was closed about 90 minutes until the jackknifed commercial vehicle and pickup could be towed from the area. The trailer was loaded with sugar products and the truck is registered to Swift Trucking.

The roadway was covered with packed snow / ice. No citations were issued.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 122308.i205lawnfield.2.jpg

Even with the current severe winter conditions and impacts on travel, ODOT and Oregon law enforcement agencies want to remind everyone of the importance to have a sober driver at the wheel of every vehicle this Christmas holiday period. State troopers, county deputies and city police officer will be on the lookout to find and remove impaired drivers from Oregon's roads in support of Governor Kulongoski's proclamation of December as "Drunk and Drugged Driving Awareness" month.

For a 102-hour period starting 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 24th, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, December 28th, stepped up enforcement efforts around the nation during the Christmas holiday period will be aimed at preventing traffic crashes and stopping dangerous and impaired drivers on our highways. During last year's Christmas holiday period, two people were killed in two separate crashes on Oregon roads. According to ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) statistics, an average of 4 fatalities have occurred each year over this holiday period during the last ten years.

A national study released last year by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed the daily death toll from impaired driving crashes during the Christmas and New Year's holiday periods is significantly more than for the rest of the year. The report showed from 2001 – 2005, an average of 36 fatalities occurred per day on America's roadways as a result of crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver. That number increased to 45 per day during the Christmas period and to 54 per day over the New Year's holiday.

Oregon State Police and ODOT urge holiday travelers to remember these tips:

* Don't drink and drive ("Buzzed driving is drunk driving"), and don't ride with anyone who has had too much to drink.
* Never use illegal drugs.
* Volunteer to be a designated driver.
* If someone who's been drinking insists on driving, take his/her keys.
* If hosting a gathering, provide non-alcoholic beverages.
* Use public transit or local drive-home services provided by taxis and other companies.
* Always use safety restraints.
* Avoid travel after midnight, especially on weekends or holidays.
* Remember the weather can change with little notice. Adjust your driving and speed to highway conditions and drive defensively at all times.
* Report any suspected impaired driving by calling 1-800-24DRUNK (800-243-7865) or 9-1-1.

To help motorists safely navigate the roads during our current winter conditions, a year-old publication, the "Oregon Winter Driving Guide" developed by the Governor's Transportation/Tourism Task Force, is available containing information on Oregon's laws that govern use of tire chains, tips for driving in icy or snowy conditions, and a checklist of equipment for roadside emergencies. The free guide is available at visitor information centers and convention bureaus, welcome centers and information kiosks, Les Schwab Tire Centers, Department of Transportation offices, and from members of the Oregon Lodging Association. The guide is also available online at tripcheck.com, traveloregon.com, oregontic.com, and oregonlodging.com. A link is also available on the Oregon State Police web site.

During the last week, emergency responders have been working under extremely hazardous conditions at crash scenes and helping motorists. Two Oregon State Police patrol vehicles have been struck by out-of-control vehicles on snow/ice covered roads.

For the safety of emergency responders working everyday, remember Oregon has a "Move Over Law." It states if you are driving up behind any type of police car or emergency vehicle pulled over on the roadside with emergency lights flashing, you must:

* Move over into another lane.
* If you can't safely change lanes, slow down.
* In all cases, the driver must try to provide as much room as possible for the emergency vehicle.

For more information about the national effort against impaired driving, visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org .

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: holiday_snowman72dpiRGB.jpg

A commercial truck transporting a low level radiation load jackknifed Monday afternoon on Interstate 84 near La Grande. An assessment by the regional Hazardous Materials Response Team out of La Grande Fire Department determined there was no breach or compromise of the container and the vehicles are to be towed to a secondary location before continuing to its original destination in Richland, Washington.

According to Oregon State Police Senior Trooper Marcus McDowell, on December 22, 2008 at approximately 1:15 p.m. a commercial truck pulling a semi-trailer operated by TIMOTHY M. ENRIGHT, age 50, from Corvallis, was westbound on Interstate 84 near milepost 259 when it lost control. The vehicles jackknifed, went off the highway and collided with a rock wall.

Oregon State Police troopers, ODOT and the La Grande Fire Department's Regional Haz Mat Team responded to the scene. The Haz Mat team's on scene assessment indicated no breach of the container with the unidentified load.

ENRIGHT was driving for R&R Trucking Inc. and was enroute from Oakridge, Tennessee to Perma Fix Northwest Inc. in Richland, Washington. According to the Perma Fix Northwest Inc. website (http://www.perma-fix.com/northwest/index.html) the company houses "offices, laboratories, and processing facilities for the treatment of Low Level Radioactive and Low Level Mixed Waste."

The right westbound lane was closed since the incident occurred before the truck and trailer are towed to a site in La Grande. ENRIGHT was not injured. No enforcement action was taken.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 122208.i84mp259.1.jpg , 122208.i84mp259.2.jpg , 122208.i84mp259.3.jpg

An Eagle, Idaho man died Saturday morning on Interstate 84 about ten miles east of La Grande when his pickup drove onto the shoulder of the freeway and crashed into an unoccupied tow truck assisting another motorist involved in an earlier traffic crash.

According to Oregon State Police Senior Trooper Ryan Moorehead, on December 20, 2008 at approximately 11:15 a.m. a 1998 Dodge pickup driven by JOHN A. SEARS, age 44, from Eagle, Idaho, was eastbound on Interstate 84 near milepost 270 in the left lane. The pickup traveled from the left across to the right onto the shoulder and crashed into an unoccupied parked tow truck. The tow truck was assisting another motorist involved in an earlier crash.

SEARS was pronounced deceased at the scene. Safety restraint use information is not available.

Oregon State Police troopers from the La Grande Area Command office are continuing the investigation. Highway conditions were packed snow and ice. ODOT and local emergency responders assisted at the scene.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 122008.fatal.i84mp270.3.JPG , 122008.fatal.i84mp270.5.JPG

Courtesy - Oregon State Police

The attached five photographs were taken during the memorial procession activities for Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant.

Captain Tennant and Oregon State Police Senior Trooper Bill Hakim died Friday, December 12th, when an explosive device detonated at a Woodburn area bank.

Senior Trooper Hakim's memorial service is still scheduled for Saturday, December 20th, at 11:00 a.m. at the Salem Armory on the Oregon State Fairgrounds.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 121908.tennant.4.JPG , 121908.tennant.5.JPG , 121908.tennant.7.JPG , 121908.tennant.9.JPG , 121908.tennant.10.JPG

(Note: Victim's last name is spelling BIRCHEM)

A Bend-area man died Thursday morning when the vehicle he was driving slid off Highway 97 about three miles north of Bend and rolled onto its top. The victim was not using safety restraints and was partially ejected. A passenger who was using safety restraints was not injured.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Senior Trooper Terry Miller, on December 18, 2008 at approximately 8:30 a.m. a 1998 Dodge 2500 4x4 pickup driven by DAVID LAWRENCE BIRCHEM, age 32, from Bend, was northbound on Highway 97 near milepost 131 on the snow-covered roadway. The pickup slid off the east side of the highway and rolled onto its top.

BIRCHEM was not using safety restraints and was partially ejected. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Passenger JUSTIN M. MAYES, age 25, from Bend, was using safety restraints and was not injured.

OSP troopers from the Bend Area Command office are completing the investigation. Speed and slick road conditions were contributing factors.

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, ODOT and Bend Fire Department assisted at the scene.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 121808.fatal.hwy97mp131.1.jpg , 121808.fatal.hwy97mp131.2.jpg

Numerous public safety agencies have indicated they will be sending representatives to the memorial service scheduled Saturday, December 20th, for Oregon State Police Senior Trooper Bill Hakim. The 11:00 a.m. memorial service will be held at the Oregon State Fairgrounds Jackson Armory in Salem, Oregon.

Some of the State Police / Highway Patrol and other out of state agencies planning on attending include:

* California Highway Patrol
* Washington State Patrol
* Idaho State Police
* Montana Highway Patrol
* Arizona Department of Public Safety
* Colorado State Patrol
* New Mexico State Police
* Royal Canadian Mounted Police
* Seattle Police Department
* Ada County, Idaho Sheriff's Office
* Clark County Sheriff's Office
* Vancouver, Washington Police Department

Senior Trooper Hakim, age 51, and Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant died December 12, 2008 when an explosive device detonated at a Woodburn area bank. Woodburn Police Chief Stanley Russell was critically injured. Two suspects have been arrested as part of an ongoing interagency investigation into the tragic incident.

Senior Trooper Hakim was assigned as a detective in the Arson & Explosives Section and was a certified Hazardous Devices Technician. He is the 28th Oregon State Police trooper to lose his life in the line of duty.

A memorial service for Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant will be held today, December 19th, at 1:00 p.m. at the Jackson Armory in Salem.

Media representatives are asked to call (503) 934-8251 to confirm their attendance and vehicle information for parking needs. Additional information is available on the OSP website at www.oregon.gov/OSP.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

(The following release is from the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement Team)

***

A Grants Pass-area man was arrested Wednesday by detectives from the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement Team (RADE) on marijuana-related charges after a search warrant led to the discovery of an indoor marijuana growing operation.

On December 17, 2008 detectives from RADE, Oregon State Police troopers, and an agent from Drug Enforcement Administration served a search warrant at 5456 Foothills in Grants Pass related to an indoor marijuana growing operation investigation. Detectives found in an unattached garage adjacent to a residence approximately 2 lbs. of processed marijuana, 57 marijuana plants in various stages of growth, a firearm, and other evidence related to the manufacture and distribution of marijuana.

The residence's owner, NATHANIEL CASARETTO, age 33, was arrested for Unlawful Manufacture, Distribution, and Possession of Marijuana.

A second person who had just purchased marijuana at the residence when officers arrived was cited for Unlawful Possession of Less than an Ounce of Marijuana.

RADE is an interagency team comprised of detectives from Oregon State Police and Grants Pass Department of Public Safety.

No photographs available for release.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

An Oregon State Police traffic stop in the Lakeview area Wednesday afternoon led to the arrest of a California man following the discovery of approximately 17 1/2 pounds of marijuana.

On December 17, 2008, at approximately 12:40 p.m., an OSP Trooper stopped a Chevrolet Equinox displaying California license plates occupied by one individual for a traffic violation on US Highway 395 northbound near milepost 136.

Investigative efforts during the course of the traffic stop led to the discovery of approximately 17 1/2 pounds of marijuana in the vehicle. The seized marijuana has an estimated value of approximately $52,000.

The vehicle's occupant, KIM GRANT NELSON, age 52, from Redway, California, was arrested and lodged in the Lake County Jail for Unlawful Possession and Distribution of a Controlled Substance -Marijuana.

Photograph Source: Lake County Sheriff's Office

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 121708.hwy395.nelson.marijuana.jpg , NELSON KIM.jpg

An unoccupied Oregon State Police patrol vehicle was struck at the scene of a jack-knifed commercial truck Wednesday evening on Interstate 84 east of Pendleton. The freeway was closed for approximately two hours after this incident for removal of multiple vehicles in the area.

According to Oregon State Police Lieutenant Greg Sherman, on December 17, 2008 at approximately 7:00 p.m. OSP Trooper Trampas McCrae was at the scene of a jack-knifed commercial truck westbound on Interstate 84 near milepost 219 near the bottom of Cabbage Hill. The commercial truck was jack-knifed on the right shoulder and the OSP vehicle was behind the truck with its emergency lights activated.

As Trooper McCrae was standing on the hillside with the truck's driver a 2008 Peterbuilt conventional truck pulling a semi-trailer rounded a corner and lost control.

The Peterbuilt crashed into the guardrail on the left shoulder causing it to jack-knife. The Peterbuilt slid across both lanes of travel and crashed into the parked OSP Ford Expedition. No one was injured.

The driver of the Peterbuilt truck, SABINO LUNA, age 44, from West Valley, Utah, was driving for May Trucking. No citations were issued.

The roadway was extremely icy and high winds caused blowing snow conditions. Roadway was closed for approximately 2 hours to remove the trucks with ODOT's assistance.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 121608.osppendleton.jpg , 121608.osppendleton2.jpg , 121608.osppendleton3.jpg

Two people were injured, one seriously, Wednesday morning in a collision involving a commercial vehicle and a pickup on Highway 97 near Chemult.

According to Oregon State Police Senio Trooper Roberto Robles, on December 17, 2008 at approximately 10:18 a.m. a 2000 Toyota Tacoma pickup driven by VICTOR COLATO, age 46, from California City, California, was southbound on Highway 97 near milepost 201 when it lost control on the snow / ice covered highway. The pickup crossed into the northbound lanes where it collided with a commercial truck driven by STEVEN LOCKHART, age 59, from Springfield.

COLATO was extracted from his pickup by Chemult EMS. He was transported by air ambulance to St. Charles Medical Center in Bend where he is listed in serious condition.

LOCKHART received minor injuries and declined treatment.

Both drivers were using safety restraints.

The highway was shut down for over an hour, and then opened to one way travel until the roadway was cleared.

The investigation is continuing by OSP Bend Area Command troopers. Klamath County Sheriffs Office, Chemult EMS and ODOT assisted at the scene.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 121708.hwy97mp201.1.JPG , 121708.hwy97mp201.2.JPG

OSP/Woodburn memorial service arrangements, and other information for Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant and OSP Senior Trooper Bill Hakim are posted on the Oregon State Police website, www.oregon.gov/OSP.

Due to severe weather, schedules and procession plans may change. Check the OSP website often, information is updated regularly.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

News Release from: Marion Co. District Attorney's Office
UPDATE: WOODBURN EXPLOSIVES INVESTIGATION * ARREST OF SECOND SUSPECT
Posted: December 16th, 2008 1:54 PM

Tuesday, December 16, 2008, interagency team investigating the killing of two Oregon police officers, critical injury to a police chief and injury to a bank employee arrested a second person.

Bruce Turnidge, age 57 of rural Salem, was arrested at approximately 11:30 a.m. for the crimes of Conspiracy to Manufacture an Explosive Device and Conspiracy to Possess an Explosive Device. He will be lodged at the Marion County Correctional Facility. Mr. Turnidge is the father of Joshua Turnidge, who was arrested on Sunday night, December 14, 2008.

The arraignment of Bruce Turnidge will be Thursday, December 18, 2008, at 8:00 AM at the Marion County Court Annex located at 4000 Aumsville Hwy, Salem, Oregon. The defendant will be personally present in court; not on video. The Court will allow only 1 video camera in the courtroom; media agencies will be required to share the feed. The Court will allow still cameras but flashes are forbidden and photographers will not be allowed to move about the Courtroom. Any questions on media access to the Courtroom should be referred either to Trial Court Administrator Diane Morse or Court Staff Supervisor Gina Courson.

Joshua Turnidge was arraigned this morning before Circuit Judge Joseph V. Ochoa on a 13 count district attorney's information charging Manufacture of a Destructive Device, Possession of Destructive Device, Assault in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Murder, two counts of Attempted Aggravated Murder, and six counts of Aggravated Murder. Steven Krasik and Steve Gorham were appointed to represent Joshua Turnidge. Mr. Krasik was present in court. Arraignment on indictment is scheduled for December 26, 2008, at 8:00 AM, also at the Marion County Court Annex. The case was assigned to Marion County Circuit Judge Thomas M. Hart.

Investigators remain very interested in any information the public can provide. Anyone who may have knowledge about these crimes should call the new tip line at 1-888-780-5678. The offer of a $35,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of the person or persons responsible for this crime remains open.


Contact Info: To reach a PIO from the interagency investigation team, media are asked to call the Marion County Sheriff's Office PIO Pager at (503) 370-2181. This information, and all subsequent information, is being released at the direction of the Marion County DA's Office.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

A commercial truck driver escaped injury Monday morning when the tractor trailer truck he was driving disconnected from two tanker trailers causing the closure of the northbound lanes of Interstate 205.

According to Oregon State Police Recruit Tyler Bechtel, on December 15, 2008 at approximately 7:44 a.m. a commercial truck traveling northbound on Interstate 205 at milepost 16 was pulling two tankers full of calcium magnesium acetate deicer. The truck's driver, WALLACE TELFORD, age 59, was slowing to pull to the right when the tanker trailers began to slide on the icy surface of the road. The tankers left the road and rolled over disconnecting from the truck. One of the two tankers was punctured and leaked calcium magnesium acetate.

Calcium magnesium acetate is used to deice roadways. The spill was contained by the Metro Area Interagency HAZMAT Team and Clackamas County Fire Department.

Other agencies assisting included ODOT and Clackamas County Bureau of Water and Environmental Services.

All northbound lanes of travel were closed for approximately 30 minutes and the right northbound lane remained closed for over four hours.

Telford was driving for Davis Trans Lite Inc. of Clackamas.

OSP troopers from the Portland Area Command office are completing the investigation. No enforcement action taken.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 121508.int205.deicer.1.jpg , 121508.int205.deicer.2.jpg , 121508.int205.deicer.3.jpg , 121508.int205.deicer.4.jpg , 121508.int205.deicer.5.jpg

Oregon State Police is continuing the investigation into a fatal traffic crash in Tillamook County after a report was received Monday morning of a submerged vehicle in the Nestucca River off Highway 101 south of Farmer Creek.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Sergeant Todd Hoodenpyl, on December 15, 2008 at approximately 10:00 a.m. Tillamook County 9-1-1 was contacted by the victim's sister reporting she was missing after driving from her boyfriend's house on Highway 22 Sunday night. Later in the day the victim's father spotted a submerged vehicle in the Nestucca River along Highway 101 near milepost 83.

OSP, Tillamook County Sheriff's Office and local emergency responders went to the area and confirmed the report. When the vehicle was removed from the river the victim, identified as JENNIFER LIGHTFOOT, age 21, from Beaver, Oregon, was found deceased inside.

Preliminary investigation indicates LIGHTFOOT was driving a 1995 Toyota 4Runner southbound on Highway 101 negotiating a curve when it slid off the highway and went into the Nestucca River. The vehicle came to rest on its top completely submerged.

Slick highway conditions were a factor in the crash.

OSP troopers from the Tillamook work site are continuing the investigation. Tillamook County Sheriff's Office and ODOT assisted at the scene.

No photographs available for release.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

The TIP line announced Sunday afternoon during the news conference in Woodburn is still open to receive information related to the investigation of the December 12th Woodburn bombing and subsequent deaths to two police officers, critical injury to the Woodburn police chief, and an injury to a bank employee.

Call takers are standing by to receive information phoned into the TIP line at 1-888-780-5678. Approximately 100 calls have been received since the TIP line was provided to the public.

Until advised otherwise, please continue to provide the TIP number when reporting about this investigation.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

(The following is a news release from Marion County District Attorney's Office)

The Marion County District Attorney's Office is releasing suspect information in connection with the investigation into the killing of two Oregon police officers, critical injury to a police chief and an injury to a bank employee.

Sunday night, December 14, 2008, members of the interagency investigation team arrested Joshua Abraham Turnidge, DOB 6/18/76, in North Salem for Manufacture of a Destructive Device, Possession of Destructive Device, Assault in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Murder, two counts of Attempted Aggravated Murder, and six counts of Aggravated Murder.

Joshua Abraham Turnidge is the person shown in the photograph released by investigators last night. Turnidge is known to have resided in the Salem area.

While the arrest was not the direct result of a tip from the public, investigators remain very interested in any information the public can provide. Anyone who may have knowledge about these crimes should call the new tip line at 1-888-780-5678. The offer of a $35,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of the person or persons responsible for this crime remains open.

Members of the interagency investigative team are continuing to work round the clock. We appreciate the sensitivity shown to the decision to delay immediate release of the suspect's identity in order to protect the integrity of the investigation and the safety of the officer's conducting this important work.

Turnidge will be arraigned on Tuesday, December 15, at 8:30 AM at the Marion County Court Annex located at 4000 Aumsville Hwy in Salem, Oregon. The defendant will be personally present in court; not on video. The Court will allow only 1 video camera in the courtroom; media agencies will be required share the feed. The Court will allow still cameras but flashes are forbidden and photographers will not be allowed to move about the Courtroom.

Any questions on media access to the Courtroom should be referred either to Trial Court Administrator Diane Morse or Court Staff Supervisor Gina Courson.

Any additional information will be provided by the Marion County District Attorney's Office.


Contact Info: Any additional information will be provided by the Marion County District Attorney's Office; however, calls to the Marion County Sheriff's Office PIO Pager between 3 PM and 4 PM will be returned today by the interagency PIO team. The MCSO PIO Pager can be reached at (503) 370-2181.

Photograph Source: Marion County Sheriff's Office

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: Turnidge.jpg

The Marion County District Attorney's Office will be making all future media releases on this investigation. The District Attorney's Office does anticipate releasing information with regard to the suspect's name, age, address, charges, and arraignment date and time later this afternoon. The exact time, style, and manner in which this release will be made is still being determined. Ample notification will be made if a media conference is held.

There have been many questions regarding Chief Russell and his medical condition. Chief Russell is still in critical condition with serious injuries to both his legs and facial area. Chief Russell is recovering from his injuries in a Portland area hospital.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

(The following news release is forwarded for Marion County Sheriff's Office)

Marion County Sheriff Russ Isham announced an arrest was made Sunday evening in connection to the killings of two Oregon police officers, critical injury to a police chief, and an injury to a bank employee. Due to the need to protect the integrity of the investigation and the safety of officers continuing to investigate this crime, the Marion County District Attorney's Office has directed the suspect's name, investigative and arrest details withheld at this time.

Sunday evening, December 14, 2008, an interagency investigation led to the arrest of a suspect in the Salem area. The exact arrest location is not being released at this time. The District Attorney's Office expects the investigation will allow the release of the suspect's name, age and charges by late Monday afternoon.

"The arrest was the result of an intensive round-the-clock investigation by an interagency task force comprised of federal, state, county, and city public safety agencies," said Isham. "I'm really proud of those who tirelessly worked to get us to this point and am humbled by the community's support. We know there is still a lot of hard work ahead of us, but this development will help bring relief to the local community and the officer's families."

Coordinated by the Marion County Sheriff's Office, the interagency team included investigators from the following agencies:

* Federal Bureau of Investigation
* Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms
* Marion County District Attorney's Office
* Oregon State Police
* Woodburn Police Department
* Mt. Angel Police Department
* Gervais Police Department
* Aurora Police Department
* Salem Police Department
* Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
* Kiezer Police Department
* Oregon City Police Department
* Stayton Police Department
* Portland Police Bureau
* Polk County Sheriff's Office
* Immigration and Customs Enforcement

An audio recording of this information will be sent via FlashBite shortly after this release.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

A Turlock, California man died Saturday night in a three vehicle crash on Highway 97 in the Klamath Falls area.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Sergeant Robert Fenner, on December 13, 2008 at approximately 8:12 p.m. a 2007 Chevrolet pickup driver by LEWIS L. BANKSTON, age 46, from Turlock, California, was southbound on Highway 97 near milepost 274 when it crossed into the northbound lanes. The pickup collided with the right side of a commercial truck operated by STEVEN LEE BEIDLEMAN, age not available, from Modesto, California. The pickup sustained major damage and came to rest next to the northbound guardrail.

Shortly after the initial collision a northbound 1992 Ford pickup driven by TEANCUM LEE CLARK, age unavailable, from Klamath Falls, collided with the left rear of the damaged Chevrolet pickup. The Ford pickup sustained moderate damage.

BANKSTON was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The occupants of the Ford pickup sustained no to minor injuries. No information on their names is available at this time.

BEIDLEMAN was not injured.

All the drivers and passengers were wearing their safety belts.

The roadway was completely covered with packed/snow ice.

OSP troopers from the Klamath Falls Area Command office are continuing the investigation. Klamath Falls Police Department, Merrill Police Department, Klamath County Fire District I and ODOT assisted at the scene.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 121308.fatal.hwy97mp274.1.jpg , 121308.fatal.hwy97mp274.2.jpg , 121308.fatal.hwy97mp274.3.jpg

An Oregon State Police traffic stop in the Madras area Saturday morning led to the arrest of a Calfornia man following the discovery of approximately 1/4 pound of cocaine.

On December 13, 2008, at approximately 10:10 a.m., OSP Senior Trooper Jed Rzegocki stopped a Lexus passenger car displaying California license plates for a traffic violation on Highway 97 northbound near milepost 89 just north of Madras.

Investigative efforts during the course of the traffic stop led to the discovery o