Semi-truck crash blocks Hwy. 126E for hours

A commercial truck driver received minor injuries Monday evening but was cited after he lost control, left Highway 126E and crashed into a tree about five miles east of Belknap Hot Springs, blocking the road southwest of Santiam Pass for several hours, Oregon State Police said.

According to Senior Trooper Jamin Van Meter, on October 28 , 2013 around 5:30 p.m., a 2013 Freightliner truck pulling a box semi-trailer driven by RIicky J. Morin, 63, of Albany, was eastbound on Highway 126E near milepost 13.

The truck traveled off the shoulder for over 500 feet before crossing the highway and striking a tree head-on, troopers said.

The semi-trailer, loaded with 20,000 pounds of dry goods, rolled onto its side and came to rest blocking the roadway.

Morin was transported by ambulance to Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend for treatment of minor injuries. He was cited by OSP for failure to drive within a lane.

OSP was assisted at the scene by McKenzie River Fire & Rescue and ODOT.