On July 31, 2016 at approximately 3:29 AM, Lincoln County Sheriff Deputy Nathan Biel observed a 2007 Nissan Altima cross over the fog line at Highway 101 near Neotsu Drive. Failure to a drive within a lane of travel is a common indicator of an impaired driver. Deputy Biel attempted to stop the vehicle but the driver failed to yield to emergency lights and sirens. Deputy Biel pursued the vehicle northbound on Highway 101 and requested additional law enforcement response.
The suspect vehicle continued onto Highway 18 at speeds in excess of 100 MPH. The Lincoln City Police department dispatched multiple patrol units to assist in the pursuit. Deputy Biel pursued the vehicle to the 400 Block of N. North Bank Road, where the driver lost control and crashed. The suspect vehicle struck and severed a power pole before rolling down an embankment. Low hanging energized power lines caused arching, preventing law enforcement from immediately attempting rescue.
North Lincoln Fire & Rescue along with Pacific West Ambulance responded to provide assistance. Pacific Power arrived to de-energize the effected power lines and re-establish service to the community. Lincoln County Sheriff’s office deployed its canine unit in attempt to locate the driver who had fled the area on foot without success. The investigation into positive identification of the driver is ongoing.
