UPDATE: Investigators have determined that more likely than not Ms. Williams had inhaled Nitrous Oxide gas prior to the crash not C02 as previously reported. The investigation is continuing.
(JEFFERSON, Ore.) - Police say 23-year old Falon Rae Williams of Albany was driving a 2002 Ford Taurus with three passengers aboard, when it left the road and crashed into a tree on Marion-Jefferson Road Monday about 5:00 PM.
Passengers in the vehicle were 23-year old Michael Evan Matthews, of Tangent, Ore., 19-year old Paul Hartzell of Jefferson, Ore., and 17-year old Rebeckah Jo Ann Crisman, of Junction City, Ore.
Rebeckah Crisman, who was seated in the right rear seat was transported to Albany General Hospital where she later died of her injuries at approximately 1:08 AM (August 26th).
The Marion County Sheriff's Office CRASH Team responded to investigate. All occupants were transported to various hospitals.
Police initially said the investigation revealed that Falon Williams had deliberately inhaled gas vapors from a CO2 cylinder prior to the crash.
Investigators have now determined that more likely than not Ms. Williams had inhaled Nitrous Oxide gas.
It is believed the inhalation or "huffing" of these gases impaired Ms. Williams' ability to safely operate the vehicle.
The driver, Ms. Williams, was transported to Good Sanitarian Hospital in Corvallis. Her injuries were minor and she was subsequently released.
Mr. Matthews who was in the front passenger seat had sustained at least a fractured leg. He was transported and admitted to Good Samarian Hospital.
Mr. Hartzell who was a rear seat passenger, sustained internal injuries and was transported to Albany General Hospital and then sent to OSHU where he was admitted.
Based upon the investigation, authorities say the vehicle had crashed into a tree.
The impact deployed the vehicle's airbags. It is unknown at this time whether the occupants had been wearing their safety belts. None of the occupants were thrown from the vehicle.
It is suspected Rebeckah Crisman was not wearing a safety belt.
Falon Williams was arrested and transported to the Marion County Jail where she was lodged on charges of Manslaughter in the Second Degree; Assault in the Second degree (two counts); and Driving While under the Influence of Inhalants.
The vehicle crash is still under investigation.
Police Say 'Huffing' Contributed to Fatal Car Crash Near JeffersonSalem-News.com