Kevin Wesley Russell Obituary, UNION COUNTY, Ore. — Kevin Wesley Russell, 46, of Leachville, Arkansas, has died following a fatal crash on Interstate 84 in Union County, Oregon, on Monday, September 28, 2026.
According to the Oregon State Police, the crash occurred at approximately 8:47 a.m. near milepost 278 on Interstate 84, in the North Powder area. Russell was operating a Peterbilt semi-truck and trailer that had become disabled and was stopped on the westbound shoulder.
A Freightliner tow truck operated by 50-year-old Dennis James Fenn of La Grande had also stopped nearby to assist with the disabled vehicle. During the incident, a westbound Kenworth semi-truck and trailer operated by 52-year-old Mark William Galyen of Baker City left the roadway and collided with the disabled Peterbilt and trailer.
The Kenworth then struck Russell, who was outside his vehicle at the time of the collision. Russell was pronounced deceased at the scene. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation by the Oregon State Police.
Galyen was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries, while Fenn was reportedly not injured. The crash significantly affected traffic on Interstate 84, with the highway impacted for approximately six hours as authorities investigated the scene and worked to clear the area.
The Oregon State Police were assisted by the North Powder Rural Fire Protection District and the Oregon Department of Transportation. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances that led to the collision and the events surrounding the vehicles stopped along the interstate.
For those who knew Kevin Wesley Russell, his passing marks the loss of a 46-year-old man whose life and presence mattered to his family, friends, coworkers, and others who knew him. He will be remembered by those whose lives he touched.
Kevin Wesley Russell of Leachville, Arkansas, will be deeply missed. As his loved ones face the difficult days ahead, may they find strength and comfort in the memories they shared with him. May his memory remain a lasting part of the lives of those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, Kevin Wesley Russell.
