Tragedy struck on a Linn County highway last weekend when a pedestrian was fatally hit by a vehicle. The incident occurred on Highway 34, near milepost 10, just as the evening was winding down on Sunday. According to reports by the Oregon State Police, the emergency call came in around 7:26 p.m. They have identified the victim as 44-year-old Hollenia Ann Russell from Albany.
Russell was attempting to cross the highway when, operated by Breanna Demae Fitch, a westbound Dodge Avenger struck her. Fitch, a 27-year-old resident of Lebanon, suffered minor injuries in the collision. After the devastating incident, Russell was declared deceased at the scene.
The accident caused significant disruptions as the highway was closed for approximately three hours, while an on-scene investigation was conducted. The efforts to understand the dynamics of the crash ensued with multiple agencies coming to assist, including Lebanon Fire, Tangent Fire, Albany Fire, and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).
Officials have yet to release further details about the crash. The Oregon State Police, in trying to comprehend the full scope of the tragic event, continues their investigation. The stretch of Highway 34, now cleared of the earlier evening's turmoil. Affected families have requested privacy during this difficult time.
