Two Killed in Separate Oregon Crashes as Winter Conditions Impact Roads
Klamath County collision on Highway 97 highlights deadly weekend on state highways
Two people were killed in separate crashes reported by Oregon State Police over the weekend, including a multi-vehicle collision in Klamath County that investigators say was influenced by icy road conditions.
Klamath County: Three-Vehicle Fatal Crash on Highway 97
On Sunday, December 21, 2025, at approximately 9:55 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 181 in Klamath County.
According to OSP, a gold Chevrolet Silverado traveling southbound crossed into the northbound lane after the driver lost control on icy roadway conditions. The Silverado struck a northbound black Toyota Tacoma head-on before colliding with a blue Dodge Ram towing a small trailer.
The driver of the Toyota Tacoma, Kristara Leah Lopez, 47, of Coos Bay, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
A passenger in the Toyota, Gilberto Paez Lopez, 59, of Coos Bay, was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.
The driver of the Chevrolet Silverado, Cindy Rose Pearce, 59, of Bend, was transported to a hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the Dodge Ram, Carl Michael Kelley, 68, of Oakridge, and his passenger, Terri Louise Kelley, 59, were also transported with minor injuries.
The highway was impacted for approximately five hours while investigators worked the scene. OSP was assisted by Crescent Fire District and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Josephine County: Single-Vehicle Fatal Crash on Interstate 5
In a separate incident, Oregon State Police responded to a fatal single-vehicle crash late Friday night, December 19, 2025, on Interstate 5 near milepost 70 in Josephine County.
OSP reports that a red GMC Jimmy traveling northbound veered off the roadway for an unknown reason, entered the gravel shoulder, and rolled over. The driver was ejected from the vehicle.
The driver, Jimmy Warren Stanley, 82, of Dunsmuir, California, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The crash did not significantly impact traffic on Interstate 5. OSP was assisted by Rural Metro Fire, American Medical Response ambulance service, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Ongoing Safety Reminder
Oregon State Police continue to urge motorists to use caution during winter driving conditions, particularly in areas where ice and reduced traction may not be immediately visible. Drivers are reminded to slow down, maintain safe following distances, and remain alert to changing roadway conditions.
