Joshua Barnes Killed in Lebanon Pedestrian Accident
A 60-year-old driver faces DUII and reckless driving charges following the fatal Sunday crash
Joshua Barnes, 43, was killed in a pedestrian crash on Airport Drive in Lebanon, Oregon, early Sunday, according to the Linn County Sheriff's Office.
Tamera Hines, 60, of Lebanon, was arrested at the scene and charged with DUII and reckless driving. Investigators said she was driving a red 2010 Dodge Dakota pickup east when the vehicle struck Barnes as he stood in the road. Paramedics pronounced the 43-year-old dead at the scene of the collision. The driver remained at the location and cooperated with deputies before being taken into custody.
Authorities noted that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
Alcohol-impaired driving accounted for 30% of all U.S. traffic fatalities in 2024, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Why did the pickup strike the pedestrian on Airport Drive?
While criminal charges have been filed, independent investigators will also examine the collision scene to determine the full scope of liability. Families of victims like Joshua Barnes often face significant emotional and financial burdens following a sudden loss caused by an impaired driver.
Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, said, "Alcohol impairment slows a driver's reaction time in ways many people never expect, turning a nighttime street crossing into a moment of sudden and irreversible danger for anyone on foot."
"Fatal pedestrian incidents involving suspected impairment often demand swift action to secure toxicology results, preserve surveillance footage, and protect fragile evidence before memories fade or records disappear," added Bond, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News.
What are the legal options for victims of impaired drivers?
In cases involving criminal charges such as DUII, civil claims can proceed concurrently, allowing families to seek accountability beyond the criminal justice system.
Oregon wrongful death statute
Under ORS § 30.020, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. Oregon applies modified comparative fault (51% bar). The statute of limitations is 3 years.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and the decedent's pre-death pain and suffering.
"Establishing driver impairment in fatal collisions requires rapid preservation of digital evidence, including bar receipts, credit card logs, and commercial telematics," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.
Formica, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News, noted, "Forensic investigators piece together driver actions leading up to the crash, while an attorney supports surviving family members by issuing formal evidence retention demands and protecting long-term legal rights."