MULTNOMAH, COUNTY, OR - The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is reporting that on Tuesday, December 20, at 5:03 A.M., Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office deputies were responding to a non-injury crash in the eastbound lanes of I-84 near Rooster Rock State Park, when they were notified of a second crash at the same location.
Upon arriving at the scene, deputies found a semi-truck had collided with an SUV, and the person associated with the SUV was deceased.
During an initial phase of the investigation, another semi-truck crashed into the scene.
Sheriff’s deputies activated the East County Vehicular Crimes Team (VCT), who responded to perform a crash investigation.
Preliminary findings suggest the person associated with the SUV was standing outside their vehicle when a semi-truck collided with them and the SUV.
VCT also noted that weather conditions may have been a contributing factor, as most surfaces were coated in a thin layer of ice.
Both semi-truck drivers are uninjured and are cooperating with the investigation.
The eastbound lanes of I-84 from Troutdale to Hood River are closed to allow for the crash investigation to be completed and to clear vehicles from the freeway.
Travel through the Columbia River Gorge is treacherous with reports of freezing rain and sleet. It is advised that drivers postpone travel or find an alternate route. If travel must occur, drive to the current conditions and carry chains, and know how to put them on. Store a survival kit in your vehicle in case you become stuck in your vehicle for a long period of time.
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About the East County Vehicular Crimes Team: VCT is comprised of specially trained law enforcement members from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department and Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. VCT is responsible for investigating serious and fatal vehicle crashes and crimes in Gresham, Fairview, Maywood Park, Troutdale, Wood Village and unincorporated Multnomah County.
