LINN COUNTY, Ore. (May 4, 2026) — A two-vehicle crash on Highway 20 near Sweet Home left one person dead and another facing criminal charges Saturday evening, according to Oregon State Police.
Troopers responded to the crash around 5:44 p.m. near milepost 21. A preliminary investigation found that a white Jeep Wrangler, driven by Mariah Darlene Lopez, 30, of Sweet Home, was traveling westbound when it crossed into the eastbound lane and collided head-on with a black Kia Forte driven by Karen Gail Ramirez, 69, also of Sweet Home.
Ramirez was ejected from the vehicle during the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities said the Jeep had reportedly been driving recklessly prior to the collision. Lopez sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Following her release, she was arrested on a charge of second-degree manslaughter and lodged at the Linn County Jail.
Highway 20 was closed for approximately four hours as crews investigated the scene.
Oregon State Police were assisted by the Lebanon Fire Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or observed the vehicles prior to the collision — specifically a white Jeep Wrangler with a black hardtop and aftermarket wheels and a black Kia Forte — to contact Oregon State Police dispatch at 800-442-0776 or dial *OSP (*677) from a mobile phone. Callers are asked to reference case number SP26-142871.
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