On March 5th at about 8 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded with Oregon State Police to a vehicle that had crashed into the McKenzie River near milepost 31 on McKenzie Highway. Multiple area fire agencies responded as well, including McKenzie Fire and Eugene Springfield Fire.
The response was complicated by high water, darkness, and the precarious location of the vehicle, which was stuck on a rock ledge in the middle of the McKenzie River.
Deputies deployed a drone to get a better view of the vehicle and occupant, who was pinned in the car. Sheriff’s Search & Rescue began working on plans to set a line across the river for a rescue swimmer, and also contacted the U.S. Coast Guard for a helicopter.
The U.S. Coast Guard helicopter was able to respond with a rescue swimmer, who was lowered onto the vehicle. The driver was secured and transported to an area hospital.
Thanks to the many agencies that responded and prevented a tragic outcome to the incident, including McKenzie Fire & Rescue, Upper McKenzie Rural Fire Protection District, Eugene Springfield Fire, Oregon State Police, ODOT, T&M Towing, U.S. Coast Guard, and others.
Oregon State Police is investigating the cause of the crash.
LCSO Case #25-1104, OSP Case SP25-072348
