Authorities in Oregon are investigating a serious traffic incident on Highway 97 in Klamath County that resulted in the decease of a Portland man.
According to the Oregon State Police, the crash occurred on April 12 at approximately 3:48 p.m. near milepost 220. Emergency responders were already managing a separate three-vehicle collision in the area, which fortunately had no reported injuries, when a second incident unfolded.
Officials say 48-year-old Mark Evan Simpson was driving a black Kia Forte northbound when he approached the scene of the earlier crash. For reasons still under investigation, his vehicle crossed the center line and entered the southbound lane.
At the same time, a commercial truck—a Volvo 760—was attempting to safely move onto the shoulder to avoid a disabled vehicle connected to the first crash. The truck was being driven by 59-year-old Das Balbir from Richmond, British Columbia.
Authorities report that Simpson’s vehicle collided with the truck during this maneuver. Following the impact, the Kia spun back across the northbound lanes before leaving the roadway and coming to rest against a tree off the shoulder.
Emergency personnel responded quickly and assessed those involved. Simpson was pronounced deceased at the scene, while the truck driver was not injured.
The sequence of events has drawn attention to the challenges drivers face when approaching active crash scenes, where sudden changes in traffic patterns and unexpected obstacles can increase the risk of additional incidents.
Officials temporarily closed or restricted sections of Highway 97 for several hours—approximately five hours—while crews worked at the scene and investigators gathered evidence. The response involved multiple agencies, including the Chemult Rural Fire Protection District, Chiloquin Fire and Rescue, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Authorities are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, including factors that may have contributed to the vehicle crossing into oncoming traffic. Investigators are expected to review roadway conditions, driver behavior, and any other relevant elements.
Motorists are being reminded to slow down and remain alert when approaching emergency scenes or stopped vehicles along highways, as conditions can change rapidly.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say additional details may be released once more information is confirmed.
