MADRAS, Jefferson County, Ore., Oct. 26, 2026 — A 77-year-old Antelope man died Saturday afternoon, October 24, after a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97 near Madras. Oregon State Police said his car turned into the path of an oncoming van.
The crash happened around 3:03 p.m. near milepost 75 on Highway 97. Investigators said a gray Honda Civic was headed south when he attempted a left turn and moved into the path of a northbound white Ford Sprinter van.
The van's driver reportedly could not stop or steer clear in time. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Jefferson County Fire and EMS, and the Oregon Department of Transportation assisted state police at the scene. The crash remains under investigation.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the person who died.
More on Crashes in Madras, OR
This crash happened on Highway 97 in Madras, Oregon. We cover crashes across Jefferson County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Jefferson County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does speed affect how bad a crash turns out to be? Higher speed gives drivers less time to react and increases the force of any impact, which generally means more serious injuries and vehicle damage.
Why are left-turn crashes like this one so dangerous? A left turn across oncoming traffic requires a driver to judge the gap and speed of approaching vehicles correctly. A misjudgment, a vision obstruction, or a medical event can put a turning vehicle directly into another car's path with little time for either driver to react.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Madras, OR
If you're involved in a crash on a highway like this, you should first make sure everyone is safe and call for emergency help. Even if you feel fine, a medical evaluation soon afterward can catch injuries that aren't immediately obvious, such as internal injuries or whiplash. Make sure to keep a copy of the police report and any medical records, and follow up with your own doctor if symptoms appear in the days after. For families dealing with a loss on Jefferson County roads, local victim services and the sheriff's office can help answer questions about the investigation process.
