Crash in Oregon kills 7, driver sentenced to 48 years

A truck driver caused a tragic crash in Oregon and received nearly 50 years in prison. The crash killed seven farmworkers. Lincoln Smith, the driver, faced charges of second-degree manslaughter, assault, and reckless driving. Judge Daniel Wren sentenced Smith in Marion County Circuit Court.

Fatal crash on interstate 5 near Albany, Oregon

The incident took place in May 2023 on Interstate 5, just outside Albany, Oregon. Smith’s truck drove into a van parked along the side of the road. The van was carrying 11 farmworkers who were working in the nearby agricultural fields. Seven workers died in the crash. The victims were Juan Carlos Leyva-Carrillo, 37; Gabriel Juarez-Tovilla, 58; Alejandra Espinoza-Carpio, 39; Eduardo Lopez-Lopez, 31; Luis Enrique Gomez-Reyes, 30; Alejandro Jimenez-Hernandez, 36; and Josue Garcia-Garcia, 30. The crash devastated the community, particularly in the farming area near Albany.

Driver’s actions and what happened before the crash

Lincoln Smith, 54, from California, caused the tragic accident. Although Smith was not drunk, tests showed methamphetamine, fentanyl, and morphine in his system. The trial revealed that Smith fell asleep at the wheel. He admitted to using drugs the night before, which caused him to nod off while driving.

The court case and sentence

In court, Lincoln Smith expressed deep regret for his actions. He told the court that he would trade his own life if it meant bringing back the seven farmworkers who died. Despite his remorse, the judge sentenced him to 48 years in prison. Smith faced several charges, including seven counts of second-degree manslaughter, three counts of assault, and reckless driving. This case stands as one of the most devastating in Oregon’s recent history.

The crash occurred near Albany, Oregon, located about 70 miles south of Portland. This region is known for its rich agriculture. Many of the farmworkers who died were part of the community that supports local farms. Their deaths have had a lasting impact on their families and the entire farming region. The crash highlights the importance of road safety and the dangers of impaired driving.