Marion County, OR (March 31, 2026) – One person lost their life, and another was hurt following a head-on crash along Interstate 5 in Marion County.
The collision happened just before 8 p.m. on Monday, March 30. Emergency units responded to the scene after two vehicles collided in the northbound lanes of I-5.
Investigators say a silver Honda Civic, driven by 31-year-old Romaldo Lopez Lopez of Salem, was traveling south in the northbound lanes. The vehicle struck a white Acura ZDX head-on as it moved north.
Lopez was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Acura, 43-year-old Casey Chia Liu of Beaverton, was taken to a nearby hospital with minor injuries.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
What Happens When a Vehicle Travels the Wrong Way on a Highway?
Wrong-way crashes on highways often lead to severe outcomes due to the speed and direct impact involved. These incidents usually happen when a driver enters an exit ramp or travels against traffic flow, creating a dangerous situation for oncoming vehicles.
Highways are designed for high-speed travel, which reduces the time drivers have to react. When a vehicle moves in the wrong direction, other drivers may not notice the danger until it is too late to avoid a collision.
Road signs, lighting, and lane markings are meant to guide drivers and prevent confusion. In some areas, additional warning systems are installed to alert drivers who may be heading the wrong way. Even with these measures, wrong-way crashes continue to occur, often with serious consequences.
