On Tuesday, May 26th, Josephine County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched along with fire and medical personnel to a two-vehicle accident on Fish Hatchery Road just after 8:00pm. Upon arrival, the vehicles involved in the crash were found to be a 2002 Mercury Sable and a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
After an investigation into the crash, it was determined that the Mercury Sable operated by 21 year old Amanda McFarland left the paved roadway and onto the gravel shoulder. The vehicle then spun into the opposite lane of travel where the Volkswagen Jetta impacted the passenger side of the Mercury Sable.
Amanda McFarland’s two year old son was in the rear passenger seat of the Mercury Sable. McFarland and her son were both transported to Three Rivers Hospital via ambulance. Unfortunately, at 10:40pm, McFarland’s son was pronounced deceased as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.
The driver of the Volkswagen Jetta was treated and released from Three Rivers Hospital with no significant injuries.
Oregon State Police responded to the crash scene to assist in a crash reconstruction and investigation where it was determined McFarland was operating her vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
McFarland was admitted to Three Rivers Hospital for injuries she sustained in the crash. After being discharged from the hospital, McFarland was arrested and lodged at the Josephine County Jail on charges of Manslaughter II, DUII, Reckless Driving, and Recklessly Endangering.
