The Dalles, OR (February 17, 2026) – Two Oregon State Police troopers were injured Monday morning in a crash involving two semi trucks near Interstate 84 in The Dalles. The collision occurred on February 16 at approximately 7:30 a.m. at Highway 197 and Bret Clodfelter Way, near the top of Exit 87 from I-84.
According to the Oregon State Police, the crash involved two semi trucks and resulted in injuries to both troopers. One of the truck drivers was also injured. All three were transported to area medical facilities for treatment of a variety of injuries. Traffic was significantly impacted, with Washington-bound traffic diverted to Hood River or Biggs Junction, while northbound traffic was rerouted onto Hwy 30 to Exit 85. The roadway was cleared and reopened later Monday afternoon. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Key Details
- Reported: February 16 at approximately 7:30 a.m.
- Location: Hwy 197 and Bret Clodfelter Way (I-84 Exit 87), The Dalles, OR
- Type: Crash involving two semi trucks
- Injuries: Two OSP troopers and one truck driver were injured
- Investigation: Ongoing by Oregon State Police
What We Know So Far
- The crash occurred near the I-84 Exit 87 interchange.
- Two semi trucks were involved in the collision.
- Two Oregon State Police troopers were injured.
- One truck driver was also transported for medical treatment.
- Traffic was diverted for several hours before the road reopened.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The specific sequence of events leading up to the crash.
- The severity of the injuries sustained.
- Whether any citations will be issued.
- Additional contributing factors.
Interchanges like Hwy 197 and Bret Clodfelter Way near I-84 in The Dalles serve as key connectors for both commercial truck traffic and local vehicles. When crashes involving semi trucks occur in this area, responders often close ramps and redirect traffic to prevent secondary collisions. The size and weight of commercial vehicles can require additional time for scene stabilization and towing. Law enforcement typically conducts a detailed review of vehicle positions, impact points, and roadway conditions before fully reopening affected routes.
What to Do Next
- If you are involved in a crash, move to a safe location if possible and call 911 immediately for assistance.
- Remain at the scene and follow directions from responding officers and emergency crews.
- If it is safe, document the location, vehicle positions, and traffic controls to preserve important details.
- Check traffic advisories before returning through the area, as delays may continue after a major crash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why might early details change after the initial call?
Initial information is often based on preliminary observations. As investigators review evidence and statements, additional details may clarify the circumstances.
Why are freeway accidents especially hazardous for responders?
High-speed traffic and limited shoulder space increase the risk of secondary crashes, requiring lane closures to create a protective buffer.
What happens during the documentation phase of an accident response?
Officers measure vehicle positions, photograph damage, and gather statements to determine how the crash occurred.
