Waldport teacher killed in car crash

Just two weeks before the start of a new school year, the Waldport community was stunned at the news that one of its elementary school teachers, 31-year-old Anna Kelley, was killed in a head-on car crash on Highway 20 near Blodgett.

According to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Kelley was driving west in a 2010 Toyota Highlander when an eastbound 2020 Hyundai Ioniq, driven by 26-year-old Shylene Olsen, of Corvallis, crossed the centerline and the two vehicles collided at around 3:40 p.m. on Aug. 20.

Both drivers were pronounced deceased at the scene. Two of Kelley’s children, a 1-year-old girl and a 4-year-old boy, were in the vehicle with her. They were taken to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis, where they were treated for minor injuries.

Highway 20 near milepost 42 was closed for about three hours while investigators processed the scene. Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact the sheriff’s office at BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or its tip line at 541-753-8477, and reference case number 2024-2228.

Crestview Heights School in Waldport held its back-to-school night on Wednesday, Aug. 28, and although there were lots of smiles on the faces of children and adults in attendance, there was also a somber note due to the loss of a beloved teacher who had been at that school for the past eight years. Kelley also has a sister and brother-in-law who teach at the school.

During the back-to-school event, a dedicated space was available for those who wished to gather and remember Kelley.

A GoFundMe account has been established to support Kelley’s husband, Travis, and their children. As of the Lincoln County Leader’s press deadline, the effort had raised in excess of $74,000 with more than 700 donations. Those wanting to contribute can go to www.GoFundMe.com and search for “Support the Kelley Family After Tragic Loss,” an account created by Elisabeth Weekly.