KLAMATH COUNTY, OR - On Monday, March 31, 2025, at 8:46 a.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to a two vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 176, in Klamath County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Buick LeSabre, operated by Leif Taylor Celusta (34) of Crescent, lost control, crossed into the southbound lane, and struck a southbound Kenworth commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Robert Emil Mewes (58) of Madras.
The operator of the Buick (Celusta) was declared deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Kenworth (Mewes) was reportely uninjured.
The highway was impacted for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation. Speed and roadway conditions are being considered primary causes of the crash.
OSP was assisted by Crescent Fire and ODOT.
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