Wrong Way Driver on I84 Crashes, Other Driver Dies

Portland Police Badge

October 22, 2020 14:48

On October 22, 2020, at 3:55 a.m., officers from East Precinct were dispatched to a report of a head on, two vehicle crash on Interstate 84 eastbound under the Interstate 205 freeway ramps (Near the Halsey / Gateway Exit). Oregon Department of Transportation and East Precinct officers closed down the freeway and secured the scene. Portland Fire and Rescue personnel attempted life-saving efforts for one driver, however the driver did not survive their injuries at scene.

The Major Crash Team (MCT) was contacted and responded to investigate. MCT learned that one vehicle was traveling the wrong direction in a curved area on Interstate 84 where it would have been difficult for drivers going the right way to see.

The wrong way driver was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries. Investigators believe the driver was impaired. That driver, 28 year-old Brian Paul Gardner, was arrested for Manslaughter II, Reckless Driving, DUII, and was lodged in the Multnomah County Detention Center.

The name of the victim is not being released at this time.

If anyone witnessed the crash and has not spoken to police, they are asked to contact investigator Dow at the Portland Police Traffic Division, 503-823-5070.

This is the 40th MCT call out, and the 44th traffic related fatality of 2020.

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