La Pine, Ore. – Three people were killed in a head-on collision that occurred on Highway 97 near State Park Recreation Road, north of LaPine Tuesday night.
A Deschutes County Deputy attempted to stop a 2005 Dodge Pickup in Bend when it failed to yield. Due the driving behavior the deputy discontinued the pursuit.
Minutes later, the Dodge was witnessed passing vehicles southbound on Highway 97 in no passing zones. While driving in this manner, the Dodge struck a northbound 1994 Ford Escape head-on.
The driver of the Dodge, Brett M Young, age 47, of LaPine was declared deceased on scene. It was learned Young was a fugitive from Nevada for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
The driver of the Ford, Steven L Clink, age 33, of Bend was declared deceased on scene. The passenger in the Ford, Pamela James, age 50, of Bend was also declared deceased on scene.
Highway 97 was closed for hours while the investigation was conducted. OSP was assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, LaPine Fire, the Oregon Department of Transportation and the Sunriver Police Department.
This is an ongoing investigation being led by OSP and more information will be released when it is available.
