Sweet Home – On December 15, 2022, at approximately 7:30 P.M., Oregon State Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 20, near milepost 24, outside of Sweet Home. A pickup truck pulling a trailer, operated by Timothy R. Geil (62) of Lebanon, overshot the left turn onto Dew Drive from highway 20 and impacted a sedan, operated by Rhys A. Cyrus (42) of Sweet Home. Cyrus was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A passenger in the pickup was also transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The preliminary investigation indicated both vehicle operators were impaired at the time of the crash. Further investigation revealed both operators had a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) over the legal limit. Both drivers were charged with DUII-Alcohol and Reckless Endangerment of a person.
OSP was assisted by the Sweet Home Fire Department, the Oregon Department of Transportation, and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.
The Oregon State Police will have extra patrols, continuing through the new year, focusing on the Fatal 5 with a specific emphasis on impaired driving.
