At 4:43 a.m. on November 4, an Adventist Health Tillamook Emergency Medical Services ambulance was involved in a head-on collision at milepost 26 of Highway 6 heading westbound returning to Tillamook from a patient transfer earlier in the morning. The two EMS staff members in the vehicle received minor injuries from the crash and were able to extricate themselves from their overturned vehicle to provide immediate care to others injured on the scene. The occupants of the other car involved in the accident were transported by an additional Adventist Health Tillamook ambulance to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center in Portland.
The accident has been preliminarily determined to be caused by fallen road debris from a storm according to EMS staff on the scene, although a comprehensive investigation by Adventist Health Tillamook and Oregon State Police will follow. Eric Swanson, President of Adventist Health Tillamook states, “I am truly thankful to our EMS staff involved who exemplify compassion and professionalism, prioritizing the well-being of those injured at the scene.”
From Tillamook Fire District: These photos highlight the dangers our First Responders face every day. Thankfully everyone involved in the accident is OK and being treated for injuries. A HUGE shout out to Banks Fire District for providing amazing resources this morning. Highway six will be reopened, but has standing water and debris from fallen trees. Please use extraordinary caution while driving.
Photos provided by Tillamook Fire District