Highway 20 Crash Claims Newport Woman's Life

On Thursday, April 17, 2025, at precisely 7:07 a.m., Oregon State Police were dispatched to the scene of a serious three-vehicle crash on Highway 20, near milepost 4. The preliminary investigation unveiled that an eastbound GMC Terrace, operated by 42-year-old Heather Maria Paz Hosey of Newport, crossed the centerline under circumstances that remain unclear. This unfortunate maneuver resulted in a head-on collision with a westbound Dodge Journey, driven by 46-year-old Ruston Lee Thommen of Halsey.

As a result of the collision the GMC rotated upon impact and was subsequently struck by a westbound Dodge Dakota, operated by 19-year-old Christian Layfield Sagrero, who was following closely behind the Dodge Journey. The severity of the crash ignited the Dodge Journey, engulfing it in flames almost instantaneously.  

Tragically, the operator of the GMC, Mrs. Hosey, was declared deceased at the scene. The operator of the Dodge Journey, Mr. Thommen, managed to exit his vehicle before it became fully engulfed. He sustained unknown injuries and was promptly transported to Samaritan Pacific Communities hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. Meanwhile, Mr. Sagrero, the driver of the Dodge Dakota, reported minor injuries and was also taken to the hospital for a thorough evaluation.

The accident resulted in the highway being closed for approximately three hours as emergency services conducted their on-scene investigation. Oregon State Police received assistance from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Newport Fire, and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) in managing the situation and ensuring the safety of all involved. In light of this tragic event, it serves as a critical reminder about the importance of road safety. Drivers are urged to remain vigilant, adhere to speed limits, and avoid distractions while driving. It’s essential to stay in your lane and be mindful of your surroundings, as even a moment of inattention can lead to devastating consequences.