According to OSP, Douglas Alan Fordyce, 61, of Caldwell, was driving a Ford F-450 westbound on Silver Lake Road when he stopped at the intersection of Highway 97
Klamath County, OR – A man from Caldwell, Idaho, was killed in a traffic collision that occurred on Highway 97 in Klamath County on Friday evening, according to the Oregon State Police.
Authorities responded at around 6:20 p.m. January 9, to the accident at the intersection of Silver Lake Road near milepost 228.
According to OSP, Douglas Alan Fordyce, 61, of Caldwell, was driving a Ford F-450 westbound on Silver Lake Road when he stopped at the intersection of Highway 97. He then proceeded into the intersection and was struck by a Freightliner commercial vehicle and trailer heading south on the highway.
The big rig was driven by Sebastian Mercado Juarez, 29, of Fresno, and had Christian Mercado Juarez, 31, also of Fresno, in the passenger seat.
The OSP responded to the incident, along with the Oregon Department of Transportation, Chemult Rural Fire District, and Chiloquin Fire and Rescue.
According to the report, Fordyce was declared deceased at the scene of the crash while both occupants of the big rig had minor injuries.
The incident impacted traffic on Highway 97 for nearly two hours as crews worked to clear the scene. The accident remained under investigation by the Oregon State Police.
According to the Oregon State Police Traffic Safety Division, in 2024, there were more than 35,000 reported traffic collisions across the state, resulting in over 300 fatalities. Single-vehicle and multi-vehicle crashes on rural highways, especially during winter months with adverse conditions, contribute significantly to injury and death totals statewide in Oregon
Winter road conditions increase the risk of severe crashes, particularly on rural highways like Hwy 97. Drivers should adjust speeds, allow extra stopping distance, and exercise heightened caution when ice or snow is present. If you encounter or are involved in a crash, pull safely off the roadway, call emergency services, and wait for help. Staying prepared and vigilant can help prevent tragedies on Oregon roadways.
If you've lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, speaking with a skilled wrongful death attorney can help you understand your legal rights during this difficult time. An attorney can guide your family through the claims process, protect your interests, and pursue compensation for your loss. Reach out today for compassionate legal support and a free case evaluation.