LINN COUNTY, OR (THECOUNT) — Curtiss Joseph Scholl, 55, of Sisters, Oregon, and Kellie Jay Scholl, 53, of Sisters, Oregon, were involved in a single-vehicle crash Sunday morning on Highway 22 near milepost 68 near Idanha, according to the Oregon State Police. Authorities said Kellie Jay Scholl was pronounced dead at the scene, while Curtiss Joseph Scholl was transported to an area hospital with injuries following the collision.
Oregon State Police responded to the crash at approximately 11 a.m. on February 1 along Highway 22 in Linn County. Preliminary information released by investigators indicates the blue Hyundai IONIQ driven by Curtiss Joseph Scholl was traveling westbound when it attempted to pass another vehicle. For reasons that have not yet been determined, the vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree.
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Emergency responders arrived to find significant damage to the vehicle. Kellie Jay Scholl, who was a passenger in the Hyundai, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Curtiss Joseph Scholl was extricated from the vehicle by first responders and transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the crash. Authorities have not released an update on his condition.
The crash occurred near Idanha along a stretch of Highway 22 that runs through forested terrain and mountainous areas of Linn County. The location near milepost 68 is part of a corridor frequently traveled by residents and visitors heading between central Oregon and the Willamette Valley. Oregon State Police closed portions of the highway for approximately four hours while investigators conducted an on-scene examination and cleared the wreckage.
Investigators have not released information regarding weather conditions at the time of the crash or whether speed or roadway conditions were contributing factors. Authorities have stated only that the vehicle was attempting to pass another westbound vehicle when the driver lost control before striking a tree off the roadway.
Multiple emergency agencies responded to assist Oregon State Police at the scene. The Detroit/Idanha Fire Department, Lyons Ambulance, Stayton Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation all provided support during the response and investigation. Crews worked to manage traffic flow, provide medical assistance, and secure the crash site while troopers documented the scene.
Highway 22 remained impacted for roughly four hours as investigators worked to determine the sequence of events that led to the fatal collision. Motorists traveling through the area during that time experienced delays and detours while emergency personnel remained on site.
Oregon State Police have not indicated whether any citations or criminal charges are being considered as part of the investigation. The cause of the crash remains under review as troopers continue to examine evidence gathered from the scene, including vehicle positioning, roadway markings, and witness information if available.
Authorities have not released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the crash beyond the preliminary findings. The identities of both individuals involved were confirmed following notification of next of kin.
This section of Highway 22 is known for winding roadways and dense tree lines, which can present hazards for drivers, particularly when attempting passing maneuvers. Officials have not commented on whether road design or visibility played a role in this incident.
The investigation into the crash remains active. Oregon State Police continue to review the evidence and will provide additional updates if new information becomes available.
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