Motorcyclist killed in Highway 51 crash near Independence as Fourth of July travel begins
Summary
Motorcycle Crash Independence Oregon in Independence, Oregon: Four vehicle crashes occurred in the Salem area on July 2, 2026, as Willamette Valley law enforcement agencies increased patrols for the Independence Day weekend. A 53-year-old Salem man was arrested after allegedly driving more than 80 mph and causing a four-car crash that closed the Center Street Bridge in Salem mid-morning. A motorcyclist was killed in a crash on Highway 51 just north of Independence just before 7 p.m. A vehicle then crashed into a Polk Fire District 1 ambulance on Highway 99W as the emergency team was leaving the motorcycle crash scene, sending three ambulance crew members and the other driver to Salem Hospital; the crew members were treated and released that night.
Publicly reported parties
| Name | Role | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 53-year-old Salem man | At-fault party |
Original reporting
4 crashes in Salem area as Fourth of July travel begins, police up patrols