Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports, October 9, 2017, at 8:03 a.m., deputies investigated a fatal single motor vehicle crash. The crash occurred on Kingston Lyons Drive near the intersection of Highway 226, east of Scio.
The driver and sole occupant of the white 1990 Ford Econoline Van was identified as Michael Dee Miller,64, of Lyons. Miller was found wearing his seat belt and did not have any obvious trauma or injury. Evidence collected on scene indicates alcohol may have been a contributing factor.
The investigation reveals that between 12:02 a.m. and 7:58 a.m., Miller was operating the van and traveling east on Kingston Lyons Drive. For an unknown reason, Miller drove his van onto the gravel shoulder while attempting to negotiate a sweeping corner. Miller appears to have over-corrected, coming back onto the roadway, and crossing both lanes of travel. Miller left the roadway on the opposite shoulder and traveled about 100 feet before striking a tree. Miller was found deceased in the driver seat by a passerby who saw the van off the roadway.
Linn County Deputies were assisted by members of Lyons Fire Department, and the Linn County Road Department. The investigation is continuing.