Tragic Fatal Car Accident - May 23, 2020
Oregon State Police Troopers responded to reports of a two-car accident around midnight on Saturday, May 23, 2020, on Hwy 228 near Brownsville, Oregon. A truck allegedly driven by Austyn Hillsman, age 21, is thought to have crossed into opposing traffic and collided with a car with two passengers.
The driver of the car with whom Hillsman collided was driven by Calen Simonis of Sweet Home, age 19. Simonis was pronounced dead at the scene. Initial news reports indicated that two teenage girls, age 16 and age 15, were also in Simonis' vehicle. The 16-year-old was pronounced dead after being life-flighted to a hospital, while the 15-year-old sustained serious injury.
Mr. Hillsman's injures were not life-threatening, and he was charged with DUII, reckless driving, and criminally negligent homicide. He is being held at the Linn County Jail.
The Costly Impact of DUII and Fatal Car Crashes
Tragedies such as this, auto accidents, and fatal vehicle accidents involving alcohol are all too frequent every day across the nation. The families of the deceased and injured are left to mourn the loss of loved ones, often made worse by the financial devastation of such an accident. Medical bills, therapy bills, and rehabilitation costs can be staggering for victims.
Oregon Car Accident Lawyers Facilitate Financial Recovery
Exploring all avenues of recovery, including holding accountable the source of the alcohol that fueled senseless loss, is the job of Oregon car accident lawyers. Whether it results in a wrongful death claim, negligence claim, or even a claim with punitive damages, the best Oregon car crash injury lawyers will track down every last avenue of recovery for those who were injured.