One Killed in Truck Accident on Highway 22

Date: April 13, 2011
Location: Highway 22 West of Dallas
Names: Gary N. Butler, Leslie D. Brannon, Aaron Morgan

A three-vehicle crash on Highway 22 has resulted in the death of one person.

Oregon State Police report that at about 9:20am, a commercial truck pulling a semi-trailer carrying large paper rolls was being driven east on Highway 22 near milepost 12 by Leslie D. Brannon, age 60 of Veneta. A Ford Ranger pickup being driven westbound by Gary N. Butler, age 58 of Grand Ronde, crossed the center line and was hit on the driver’s side by the commercial truck. Police do not, as yet, know the reason why the pickup crossed into the oncoming lane of traffic.

A third vehicle, a Ford pickup being driven by Aaron Morgan, age 41 of Lebanon, was behind Butler’s vehicle and couldn’t stop in time to avoid a collision with the semi-trailer.

Butler was pronounced deceased at the scene. Brannon was transported to Dallas Hospital with minor injuries. Morgan was uninjured and his vehicle sustained only minor damage. All three men were using safety restraints.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Mr. Butler, and we sincerely hope that they will receive all of the support that they need in their time of loss. It is always so tragic to lose a loved one suddenly. We also hope that Mr. Brannon and Mr. Morgan will not suffer any long-lasting effects from this accident.

Many traffic crashes are difficult to explain, and when death or injury is involved, it is important to contact a qualified Portland truck accident lawyer. Your lawyer will conduct a thorough accident investigation. We provide information on finding a good personal injury lawyer, and if you have questions after a car crash, please contact us at (503) 222-4411.