UPDATE: The stretch of Highway 126 that had been closed is now reopened for traffic. (2:02pm 7/2)
A fatal start to the 4th of July Holiday weekend happened east of Veneta this morning.
Oregon State Police say a three-vehicle crash at milepost 48 on Highway 126 killed two people and sent three others to Riverbend Hospital in Springfield. At least one patient is in critical condition.
ODOT has closed Highway 126 between Territorial Road and Central Road. A detour has been set up near the crash site. Motorists are advised to take alternate routes, expect long delays, and be mindful of emergency crews in that area.
ODOT spokesperson Angela Beers-Seydel urges everyone to slow down, have patience, and be extra aware while traveling.
"We want everyone to get where they're going and have a safe July 4th weekend," she told KLCC in an email.
Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
Copyright 2021, KLCC.
