The preliminary investigation indicated westbound GMC Sierra, operated by Tyler Jacob Bell (32) of Dallas, left the roadway, rolled down an embankment, and came to rest on the driver’s side of the vehicle in the river below.
The operator of the GMC (Bell), who is not believed to have been wearing a seatbelt, was declared deceased at the scene.
The highway was impacted for approximately 4.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. Speed is considered the primary cause of the crash.
OSP was assisted by Nestucca Rural Fire, Tillamook County Sheriffs’ Office, and ODOT.
About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.