Jury Finds Oregon Driver Under Inhalants Responsible for Fatal 2024 Salem Crash

Salem, Oregon | September 16, 2024

DUII Crash Results in Two Deaths and One Serious Injury; Driver Convicted

A Marion County jury has found 29-year-old Terrance Quackenbush-Benson of Springfield guilty on multiple charges related to a deadly head-on collision that occurred in Salem last fall. The crash, which took place on September 16, 2024, claimed the lives of two individuals and left a third passenger with serious, ongoing injuries.

According to the Marion County District Attorney's Office, Quackenbush-Benson was under the influence of an inhalant at the time of the crash. He was driving a truck that crossed the center line and collided head-on with another truck traveling in the opposite direction. The driver and passenger in the second truck died upon impact. A third occupant survived but suffered serious injuries and is still in recovery.

Conviction and Charges

On May 7, 2025, a Marion County jury found Quackenbush-Benson guilty of:

• Two counts of first-degree manslaughter
• Two counts of second-degree manslaughter
• One count of second-degree assault
• One count of third-degree assault
• Reckless driving
• Driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII)

Quackenbush-Benson is scheduled for sentencing on May 13.

Legal Implications Under Oregon Law

This tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of impaired driving, including those involving substances beyond alcohol. Under Oregon law, driving under the influence of intoxicants—including inhalants—is a serious criminal offense. In civil court, the surviving victim and families of the deceased may also pursue claims for personal injury and wrongful death against the driver.

In cases involving DUII, Oregon law also allows for enhanced civil claims, particularly when the conduct is deemed egregious. The surviving passenger may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing pain and suffering. Families of the deceased may seek damages for funeral expenses, lost companionship, and other harms through wrongful death claims.

The Broader Public Safety Issue

This case also raises awareness about the dangers of impaired driving involving unconventional substances such as inhalants. While alcohol and cannabis are more commonly associated with DUII cases, inhalants can cause severe impairment and are equally dangerous behind the wheel.

Oregon has strict laws against driving while under the influence of any intoxicating substance. Victims of DUII crashes may also have claims under Oregon drunk driver accident injury law, particularly if there is a history of prior offenses or if a commercial establishment contributed to the impairment.

Know Your Legal Rights

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an accident involving an impaired driver, you may have legal options. The experienced attorneys at Pacific Injury Law Firm can help you understand your rights under Oregon law and pursue the compensation you deserve.

For a free consultation, contact Pacific Injury Law Firm or call 971-277-3811.

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Sources:

• Danny Peterson (opens in a new tab)