CLEARWATER TRIBUNE HOME

JUNE 3, 2010

Sleepy driver causes accident

   Harry Vandevender, 85, of Vancouver, WA told a Clearwater County Sheriff's deputy Saturday afternoon he fell asleep causing the 1998 Buick he was driving to overturn on the edge of Hwy 11 at milepost 3 near Greer.

   He and his two passengers Marie Harvey 85, of Vancouver, WA and Mildred McCollum of Clarkston, WA received minor injuries and were taken by ambulance to Clearwater Valley Hospital for treatment.

   All three were wearing seat belts. McCollum had to be extricated from the rear seat.

   Vandevender told the investigating officer Deputy Ben Salisbury he had been traveling southbound on Hwy 11 and fell asleep. The vehicle went off the right side of the roadway and struck a ditch causing the vehicle to land on its top.

   The Orofino Fire Department Rescue Unit also assisted on the scene.