The identity of a passenger killed in a two-vehicle accident on Highway 30 near Scappoose late Sunday afternoon is being withheld pending notification of family members, deputies reported.

The passenger of this vehicle, as yet unidentified, died in a two-car crash on Highway 30 Sunday - MCSO photo

According to a news release issued by the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the scene on Highway 30 and Rocky Point Road about 6:30 p.m., July 29.  Because of the severity of injuries and other observations, deputies requested the assistance of the East County Vehicle Crimes Team (VCT), which is comprised of Oregon State Police, and police departments from Gresham, Troutdale and Fairview.

VCT conducted an investigation with closed all lanes of traffic for several hours, and is expected to continue throughout Monday.  According to a news release, preliminary investigation suggests that drugs or alcohol do not appear to be a factor in the crash, and no charges have yet been filed.

According to witness statements, a 1969 Chevelle SS driven by 65-year old James Phelps of St. Helens was stopped on Rocky Point Road preparing to turn left (north) onto Highway 30 toward Scappoose.  Witnesses reported that the vehicle fish-tailed, briefly regained control, then skidded into the path of and collided with a 2001 Chevrolet Malibu.

Phelps and his passenger were both ejected from their vehicle, and the car body was separated from the chassis.  Phelps was transported to in Emanuel Hospital where he was listed in serious but stable condition, and his passenger was deceased.