SALEM, OR - The Marion County Sheriff's Office reports that: On Thursday, July 10, at approximately 7:19 p.m., deputies were dispatched to reports of a motor vehicle crash involving a bicyclist near the 2000 block of Delaney Road SE in Salem.
When deputies arrived, they located the involved vehicle, a white Hyundai Accent, and the bicyclist, who had sustained life-threatening injuries. The bicyclist, identified as 46-year-old Jeremy Wanak of Salem, was transported to Salem Hospital, where he later died as a result of his injuries.
The driver of the Hyundai was identified as 28-year-old Damon Johnson of Salem. Following the initial investigation, Johnson was arrested and lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:
- Manslaughter in the Second Degree
- Reckless Driving
- Reckless Endangering
- Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII)
Mr. Johnson is scheduled for arraignment today, July 11, at 2:30 p.m. at the Marion County Court Annex.
The roadway was closed for nearly six hours while the Marion County CRASH Team conducted a thorough investigation.
Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of Jeremy Wanak during this incredibly difficult time.
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Marion County CRASH Team, Keizer Police Department, METCOM, WVCC, Marion County Public Works, and Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplaincy Services for their assistance and support during this incident.
