The Dalles, Oregon – Two Oregon State Police troopers and a commercial truck driver were injured Monday morning following a crash involving multiple large vehicles near Interstate 84 in The Dalles. Authorities say the collision occurred on an off-ramp connecting I-84 and Highway 197, prompting road closures and traffic diversions for several hours.
The crash happened around 7:30 a.m. near Exit 87, at the top of the I-84 on-ramp along Highway 197 just north of the interstate. Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene as traffic disruptions spread throughout the area.
Incident Overview
According to officials from the City of The Dalles Police Department, the crash involved an Oregon State Police Fish & Wildlife K-9 vehicle, an unloaded log truck, and a semi-truck with trailer.
Initial reports indicate that the OSP vehicle collided with the two commercial trucks on the off-ramp area. The exact sequence of events leading to the crash has not yet been released, and investigators are still determining the contributing factors.
The impact caused significant disruption to traffic along Highway 197 and nearby access points to Interstate 84.
Injuries and Medical Response
Authorities confirmed that two Oregon State Police troopers and one commercial truck driver were transported to medical facilities for treatment. The extent of their injuries has not been publicly disclosed.
The K-9 unit inside the Fish & Wildlife vehicle was not injured in the crash. Additionally, the second commercial truck driver involved in the collision was not hurt.
Emergency responders secured the area, assessed injuries, and ensured that hazardous conditions were addressed before beginning the cleanup and investigation process.
Road Closures and Traffic Impact
Following the crash, Highway 197 was closed at Bret Clodfelter Way for much of the day Monday. Officials stated that the roadway was expected to reopen later in the evening once the scene was cleared and deemed safe.
Traffic disruptions extended beyond The Dalles:
- Southbound Washington traffic heading into Oregon was diverted toward Hood River or Biggs Junction.
- Northbound traffic was rerouted onto Highway 30 at Exit 85.
The closure significantly impacted commuter and freight traffic, especially during the morning rush hour when commercial trucking activity is typically high along the I-84 corridor.
Investigation Underway
Law enforcement officials confirmed that the crash remains under active investigation.
In a public statement, the City of The Dalles Police Department said:
“The investigation is ongoing and we are asking for anybody who has information regarding this crash to call us at 541-296-2613 and reference case number D26-0261.”
Authorities have not yet indicated whether speed, mechanical issues, weather conditions, or other factors may have contributed to the collision.
Key Facts
- Date: Monday morning
- Time: Approximately 7:30 a.m.
- Location: I-84 Exit 87 / Highway 197, The Dalles
- Vehicles involved: OSP Fish & Wildlife K-9 vehicle, unloaded log truck, semi-truck with trailer
- Injured: Two OSP troopers and one truck driver
- Uninjured: Police K-9 and one commercial driver
- Case Number: D26-0261
- Road Closure: Highway 197 at Bret Clodfelter Way
Additional Context: Highway Safety Concerns
Interstate 84 and its connecting highways are heavily traveled by commercial freight vehicles, particularly logging trucks and long-haul semis transporting goods across state lines. Off-ramps and merge points can present increased risks due to reduced speeds, lane shifts, and blind spots.
Commercial vehicle crashes often result in extended road closures due to the size of the vehicles, required inspections, and cleanup efforts. Authorities routinely remind drivers to maintain safe following distances, reduce speed on ramps, and remain alert in high-traffic freight corridors.
Drivers navigating through construction zones, off-ramps, or intersections involving large trucks should exercise additional caution, especially during peak morning travel times.
Conclusion
Monday’s crash near I-84 Exit 87 in The Dalles left two Oregon State Police troopers and a commercial truck driver injured, while causing hours of traffic disruption. Fortunately, the police K-9 and one of the truck drivers were unharmed.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine what led to the collision.
If you witnessed the crash or have relevant information, contact the City of The Dalles Police Department and reference case number D26-0261. Share your experiences in the comments below.
