COOS COUNTY, Ore. — An 18-year-old woman was killed in a head-on collision Wednesday afternoon after a wrong-way driver entered traffic on U.S. 101, according to the Oregon State Police.
The crash occurred around 2:48 p.m. near milepost 260 in Coos County.
Wrong-Way Driver Triggers Deadly Collision
Authorities say Bernard Cooley, 78, of Bandon, was driving a white Mercedes E400 northbound in the southbound lanes when he nearly collided with a local police officer on patrol.
The officer activated emergency lights, turned around, and attempted to stop the vehicle.
During the pursuit, Cooley’s car struck a guardrail before veering back into the southbound lane, where it collided head-on with a blue Mazda.
Teen Victim Pronounced Dead at Scene
The Mazda was driven by Mariah Mayfield, 18, of Coquille. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Cooley sustained minor injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Highway Closed for Investigation
The crash forced the closure of U.S. 101 for approximately three hours as investigators worked the scene.
Officials have not yet determined what caused the driver to travel the wrong way on the highway. The investigation remains ongoing.
Authorities Continue Probe
Law enforcement is continuing to gather evidence to determine the circumstances leading up to the fatal crash.
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