20-Year-Old Driver Injured In 2-Car Crash; Police Identify Suspect, But Withhold Name

DAMASCUS, OR — Oregon State Police on Thursday said they've identified a person of interest related to the crash west of Damascus on Highway 212 that critically injured a 20-year-old woman early Wednesday. The other suspected driver — who reportedly fled on foot after the crash — is described as a 20-year-old man.

Police said the man, whose last known address was in St. Helens, Oregon, "is currently in an area hospital being treated for injuries consistent with an automobile crash." In a statement released Oct. 19, officials added that the man's name will not be released quite yet "as it could jeopardize the integrity of the case."

According to police, Ana Wakefield was driving westbound in a 200o Toyota Camry around 5:30 a.m. Oct. 18 when just past Southeast Wyeast Avenue a 1999 Ford Explorer, for reasons unknown, crossed the centerline and hit her head-on. Witnesses told police the driver of the Ford, described as a white male with a slim build and dark hair who looked to be in his early 20s, exited his vehicle and ran off.

A Washington County Sheriff's deputy reportedly brought in a K9 to assist with the search but did not locate the driver of the Explorer.

Anyone with information about the crash is asked to call Oregon State Police at 503-375-3555.

This post has been updated with new information (as of Oct. 19) about the driver of the Explorer.

Photo Courtesy: Oregon State Police