LINN COUNTY, Ore. – A motorist stranded along Highway 20 in Linn County on Wednesday morning was safely rescued after walking a mile from her vehicle, prompting authorities to reiterate the importance of winter travel preparedness.
At approximately 9:15 a.m. Wednesday, an Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish and Wildlife trooper noticed a vehicle abandoned along the shoulder of Highway 20 near milepost 68. Upon investigation, the trooper discovered that the 30-year-old woman associated with the vehicle was lost and in distress. It was determined that she had left her car for reasons unknown and had walked up a nearby U.S. Forest Service road.
A coordinated response followed, with Linn County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue and an OSP Fish and Wildlife K-9 team joining efforts to locate the woman. K-9 Scout tracked her for about a mile before finding her. In the meantime, troopers kept the woman warm, building a fire and providing emergency blankets and food. Once Search and Rescue teams arrived with a snow-cat, the woman was transported back to the highway. Medics from the Sweet Home Fire Department then transported her to an area hospital for medical evaluation.
During the rescue operation, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office received two additional calls about motorists stranded on snow-covered forest roads. Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan emphasized the importance of preparation when traveling in winter conditions.
“This is a good reminder for motorists to always have a plan and adequate equipment if traveling or recreating in the snow,” Sheriff Duncan said. “Always let a friend or family member know your destination and carry a cellphone or rescue beacon. It’s always a good idea to keep your car winter-ready with safety items such as extra blankets, warm clothing, extra food and water, a first aid kit, and other survival items.”
Oregon State Police Captain Kyle Kennedy also highlighted the unpredictable nature of winter weather. “Conditions can change quickly,” Kennedy said. “This rescue was a great team effort, and we are grateful this individual was quickly located and transported to safety.”
The rescue operation, which involved multiple agencies and the K-9 team, served as a reminder of the critical need for travelers to be equipped and informed when navigating Oregon’s often treacherous winter conditions.
