Eugene, OR – Deputies in Lane County are asking for the public’s help today after a reckless driving crash knocked down powerlines and nearly injured two residents in Eugene’s Santa Clara area.
According to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 11 a.m. Saturday, January 18, to a reported crash at the intersection of Calla Street and Hyacinth Street. Investigators say witnesses reported the driver of an older teal or light blue Chevrolet or GMC pickup lost control while traveling at a high rate of speed.
Authorities say the pickup struck a power pole, causing a charged powerline to fall across several other poles before dropping into a nearby front yard. The vehicle then continued through the yard, and the driver fled the area without stopping, according to deputies.
Two residents were in the front yard when the powerline came down and narrowly avoided being struck, officials said. No injuries were reported, but the situation prompted an immediate safety response.
Power was knocked out in the surrounding neighborhood while a utility company worked to repair the damage. During the outage, many residents were unable to access security or surveillance video, which investigators believe could be key to identifying the suspect vehicle.
Deputies say the pickup likely has visible damage to the front driver’s side fender and hood. Anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam, doorbell, or security footage showing the vehicle before or after the incident is urged to come forward.
Residents with information are asked to contact Lane County Dispatch at 541-682-4150, option 1, and reference case number 26-0288.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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