Autumn Hansen Killed, an Adult and Three Juveniles Seriously Injured in Highway 26 Collision in Malheur County
Malheur County, OR –One person was killed and three juveniles were seriously injured in a two-vehicle collision on Highway 26 on Monday afternoon, according to the Oregon State Patrol.
The OSP identified the deceased victim as Autumn Jean Hansen, 41, of Vale.
The deadly crash happened at about 2:09 p.m. on Monday afternoon, October 19, 2026, on Highway 26 near milepost 244, according to Oregon State Police.
OSP said Hansen was driving a green Hyundai Santa Fe eastbound when the vehicle turned into the path of a westbound white Ford Expedition, police said. She suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said she was not wearing a seatbelt.
Three juveniles who were passengers in the Hyundai sustained serious injuries and were flown to a regional hospital. The Ford’s driver, Douglas Alan Sharp, 62, of John Day, also suffered serious injuries and was transported to a hospital.
Investigators reported that witnesses believed the Hyundai may have been attempting a U-turn in front of the Ford. The vehicle had reportedly been seen making a U-turn before the collision.
The highway was affected for approximately four hours while authorities investigated the crash.
Oregon State Police were assisted by Vale Fire & Ambulance, Treasure Valley Paramedics, the Malheur County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.