A driver may be facing charges of driving under the influence and multiple counts of reckless endangerment after crashing a bus carrying 46 Oregon Army National Guard members from the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry based in Medford.
The crash occurred just before 7 a.m. Monday, Sept. 16, on Highway 101 in Manzanita, according to a press release from the Oregon State Police.
OSP says the bus had departed from Camp Rilea and was en route to Portland, when the driver, Kenneth Alexander, 44,of Vancouver, Wash., missed the turn onto Highway 26 outside of Seaside.
“The driver assured the passengers he knew the route to Portland and continued southbound on US Hwy 101,” the press release said.
The Guard members began to grow concerned over Alexander using his cell phone and showing signs of impairment, police say. It was about that same time he lost control of the bus and crashed into the sidewalk.
Alexander was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. No other injuries were reported. The Tillamook County District Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case for charges against Alexander of DUII and 46 counts of reckless endangering.
OSP was assisted by Manzanita Police Department, and the Tillamook County District Attorney’s Office. The City of Manzanita opened City Hall to the members of the National Guard until another bus arrived.
