Truck driver found guilty of manslaughter after I-5 crash that killed 7 in 2023

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A California man was found guilty by a Marion County jury on multiple charges after he crashed a semi-truck into a loaded van, killing seven people and injuring three others in 2023, authorities said.

Lincoln Smith, 54, was found guilty of seven counts of second-degree manslaughter, three counts of third-degree assault and one count of reckless driving after he crashed a semi-truck on I-5 between Salem and Albany on May 18, 2023, the Marion County District Attorney's Office said.

Smith crashed into a van containing passengers and another semi-truck that were both parked on the shoulder along the highway. Smith went off the road while traveling north in the semi. The van was full of 10 people returning home from work and another individual was outside the vehicle when the crash happened.

Smith admitted to using methamphetamine and cocaine the night before and he tested positive for those drugs and fentanyl after the crash. However, the jury found Smith not guilty of DUII.

Prosecutors allege Smith's semi-truck also contained a bag with 16.6 grams of meth and other drug paraphernalia. Last year, an Oregon judge ruled he may stand trial separately for drug possession.

Smith's lawyer claimed the drugs were found while he was recovering in the hospital after the crash.

Smith is in custody at the Marion County Jail and his sentencing date has yet to be scheduled.