Fatal Crash – HWY 47 – Washington County

Washington County, Ore. 3 July 24- On Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at 3:15 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-47, at the intersection with Spring Hill Rd. (milepost 22), in Washington County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an Audi Q5, operated by Elvis Jay Harden (81) of Carlton, was on Spring Hill Rd at the stop sign facing westbound and began to make a left hand turn onto Hwy-47 southbound. The Audi entered the path of a northbound Mazda CX5, operated by Derek J. Ellis (41) of Corvallis, and was struck on the driver’s side door.

An Oregon State Police Sergeant was approaching the intersection at the time of the crash and immediately rendered aid to the operator of the Audi.

The operator of the Audi (Harden), who was not wearing a seatbelt, was declared deceased at the scene. 

The operator of the Mazda (Ellis) and passengers, Gemmy Wales Cadigan (40); a 2 year old male; and a 4 month old female, suffered minor injuries and were transported for medical treatment.

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash was an unsafe turn onto the highway.

OSP was assisted by Forest Grove Fire, Washington County Sheriffs’ Office, and ODOT.

# # #