Oregon State Police reported a serious accident at the Highway 26 tunnel on Sunday when a teen motorist lost consciousness behind the wheel and triggered a terrifying three-car crash that injured four. At least one commuter involved in the accident is in serious condition.
According to a released report, 19-year-old Daniel Calhon of Snohomish, Washington, was behind the wheel of a white 1990 Toyota Camry heading westbound. Upon entering the tunnel, Calhon held his breath and then fainted. Calhon's vehicle crossed the center line and crashed into an eastbound 2013 Ford Explorer. A 1999 GMC pickup truck failed to avoid the catastrophe and collided into the Camry as well.
Driver of the Explorer, 67-year-old Thomas Hatch Jr., and passenger 61-year-old Candace Hatch, were rushed to Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. Driver Daniel Calhon and has teen passenger Bradley Meyring were taken to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. Meyring is listed in serious condition, the hospital announced Monday. Thankfully, the occupants in the GMC pickup emerged uninjured.
Daniel Calhon fainted behind the wheel when he attempted to hold his breath upon entering the tunnel. According to superstitions, a person must make a wish before entering a tunnel and then hold their breath until they emerge from the other side in order to ensure their wish comes true.
"Playing games while driving that are distracting can have tragic consequences and legal ramifications," said Lt. Gregg Hastings. "The tunnel is over 750 feet long and has little room for driving error."
Daniel Calhon is charged with reckless driving, three counts of recklessly endangering another person and assault in the fourth degree.
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