Rainier Resident Gary Michael George, 69, Dies After May 15 Highway 30 Collision Near Columbia City In Columbia County
Gary Michael George, a 69-year-old resident of Rainier, Oregon, died Friday afternoon, May 15, 2026, after a roadway collision on Highway 30 near milepost 34 in Columbia County.
Oregon State Police said George drove a gold Nissan Pathfinder eastbound near the Columbia City area around 1:47 p.m. when the vehicle crossed the center line and met a fully loaded white Freightliner commercial truck traveling the opposite direction.
Responders arrived at the scene and confirmed George had died there, while the Freightliner driver, 36-year-old Kulwinder Singh of Auburn, Washington, remained unhurt, stayed at the scene, and cooperated with investigators.
Authorities closed Highway 30 for roughly three hours while emergency crews documented the scene, gathered evidence, and cleared the roadway.
Investigators continue to review the circumstances, including reports that the Nissan had passed vehicles in the opposite lane before the collision.
Family, friends, and the Rainier community now remember George with care as they await memorial and funeral service details, which family members will announce later.
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