Motor vehicle crash on US97 in Worden takes the life of Klamath Falls woman

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - On the morning of Wednesday, September 20, 2023, first responders assisted in a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of US Highway 97 and Keno-Warden Road in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Jeep Cherokee, operated by Marci Ann Maples (51) of Klamath Falls, attempted to turn north (left) onto US97 from Keno Worden Road. The Jeep entered the path of a southbound Dodge Ram 1500, operated by Charles Lavern Owens (55) of Los Angeles, Calif., and was struck in the driver's side door. The operator of the Dodge attempted to avoid the collision but could not do so. 

Maples was flown to Sky Lakes Medical Center by helicopter and was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Owens was transported to Sky Lakes Medical Center via ambulance with minor injuries. 

The highway was impacted for 2 hours during the on-scene investigation. Oregon State Police, Keno Fire, and the Oregon Department of Transportation assisted on scene.