Corvallis, OR (December 10, 2024) – A serious multi-vehicle crash occurred on Monday afternoon near the intersection of Southwest Philomath Blvd and Southwest 35th St. The Corvallis Police Department reported that the accident, which involved four vehicles, resulted in multiple injuries and led to the arrest of a drunk driver.
The crash happened around 4:45 PM when a red Ford Mustang, driven by 24-year-old Kala Baldwin, ran a red light at the intersection. Baldwin’s vehicle struck a stopped Volvo, forcing it into a Jeep SUV, which then collided with a Mazda pickup. Emergency responders arrived to find the driver of the Volvo, a 54-year-old Corvallis man, suffering from life-threatening injuries. He was transported to a hospital for urgent medical care. Other occupants sustained minor injuries but did not require hospitalization.
Police determined Baldwin was intoxicated at the time of the crash. She was arrested at the scene and taken to Benton County Jail, where she faces charges of third-degree assault, DUII (Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants), reckless driving, and reckless endangering. Authorities are continuing their investigation and ask anyone with information to contact the Corvallis Police Department.
Our thoughts are with the injured victims, especially the seriously hurt Volvo driver, and we hope for their swift and full recovery.
DUI Accidents in Oregon
Driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances poses a grave danger to everyone on the road. In Oregon, DUII incidents contribute significantly to traffic injuries and fatalities despite statewide efforts to raise awareness and enforce strict penalties for impaired driving.
High-traffic areas like Southwest Philomath Blvd and Southwest 35th St in Corvallis see frequent use, increasing the risk of collisions when drivers engage in reckless or impaired behavior. Oregon law enforces severe consequences for DUII offenses, including fines, jail time, and license suspension, in an effort to deter this dangerous behavior.
Victims of DUII accidents often face serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. It is critical for drivers to make responsible decisions to avoid endangering others on the road.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.