Wrong-way driver is jailed

By Terry Murry on Tuesday, August 16th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

PENDLETON – The driver in a crash on Interstate 84 that took the life of Kari Ann Lindeman, 49, of La Grande on July 29 has apparently recovered from his injuries and been extradited to Umatilla County Jail.

Gabriel Madrid Velasquez, 55, of Kennewick is charged with one count of first-degree manslaughter, one count of second-degree manslaughter, seven counts of reckless endangering, and one count of driving under the influence of alcohol. According to the jail roster, he was booked at 10 this morning (Tuesday).

The Oregon State Police responded to the crash near milepost 216 on Interstate 84 eastbound. Several eyewitnesses also reported the wrong-way driver. Initially, Velasquez was taken by Life Flight to St. Mary Medical Center in Walla Walla reportedly suffering from serious injuries.

The eastbound lanes of the interstate were closed for six hours due to the crash. OSP was assisted at the scene by Umatilla Tribal Police, Umatilla Tribal Fire, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.