BENTON COUNTY, OR (KPTV) -
Benton County Sheriff's deputies are investigating a deadly head-on crash on Highway 20.
The crash happened Wednesday night just west of Blodgett Road in western Benton County. Deputies say Austin Wells of Monmouth fell asleep at the wheel and drifted into the oncoming lane of traffic. When he tried to adjust back into the correct lane, Wells collided head-on with Glenn Utterback of Jefferson.
Wells' front passenger and mother, Katherine Wells, was pronounced dead at the scene. His other two passengers were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital to be treated for minor injuries.
Highway 20 traffic was diverted for more than two hours and was reopened around 7:20 p.m.
It does not appear drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash. Deputies are still looking for witnesses to assist in the investigation. They are asked to call the Benton County Sheriff's Office.
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