Astoria, Oregon – A California man has been found guilty of seven counts of manslaughter after causing a deadly crash on Interstate 5 in May 2023 that killed seven farmworkers and left three others seriously injured.
Lincoln Clayton Smith, 54, of North Highlands, California, was convicted by a jury on February 5, 2025, after a week-long trial. The crash occurred on May 19, 2023, in the northbound lanes of I-5 near the Santiam Rest Area, north of Albany. According to Oregon State Police, Smith’s semi-truck veered off the east shoulder of the highway and struck a passenger van that had been pulled over on the side of the road. The impact sent the van into another parked semi-truck, causing extensive damage.
The van, which was carrying ten people, was occupied by farmworkers returning home from a day’s work. Six of the passengers were killed instantly, while another was flown to a nearby hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries. Three others in the van suffered serious injuries but survived.
Smith was arrested at the scene and later charged with reckless driving, driving under the influence of intoxicants, three counts of third-degree assault, and seven counts of second-degree manslaughter. A subsequent search of his truck revealed 16.6 grams of methamphetamine, along with drug paraphernalia, including needles and a scale.
During the trial, prosecutors argued that Smith’s actions, combined with the drugs found in his vehicle, demonstrated a reckless disregard for the safety of others. The defense, however, contended that there was insufficient evidence to prove Smith was under the influence at the time of the crash. The jury ultimately acquitted Smith on charges related to driving under the influence but found him guilty on all manslaughter and assault counts after deliberating for over nine hours.
The conviction of Smith highlights the tragic consequences of impaired and reckless driving. Families of the victims have expressed their grief over the loss of loved ones, while officials have emphasized the importance of holding individuals accountable for actions that endanger lives on the road.
Sentencing for Smith is yet to be scheduled. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of six years and three months in prison for each count of second-degree manslaughter. The court will also determine whether the sentences will run concurrently or consecutively. Smith could also face up to five years for the third-degree assault charges.
As the legal proceedings continue, the crash remains a stark reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence and the profound impact such tragedies can have on families and communities.
