4 minutes

Dennis Katsnelson

Tragedy struck in Salem on Saturday as an 81-year-old man lost his life in a devastating incident involving a semi-truck that was pulling out of a Walmart parking lot. The Salem Police Department has confirmed the details of this unfortunate event. Shortly before 11 a.m., emergency services received a distressing call reporting a collision between a pedestrian and a vehicle. The incident occurred on the 1900 block of Turner Road Southeast, prompting swift action from responders.

We took this video from KPTV FOX 12 Oregon YouTube Channel.

The victim, identified as John Alvin Schwiewek, was traveling along the east sidewalk of Turner Road when a tractor truck hauling a refrigerated trailer struck him. The driver of the semi-truck, 62-year-old John Lee Griffin, had been turning north while exiting the Walmart parking lot when the collision occurred. The Salem Police Department has stated that Griffin is fully cooperating with the inquiry and adhering to the obligations imposed on commercial drivers.

At this stage, law enforcement authorities have neither issued any citations nor made any arrests in connection with the accident. The inquiry remains ongoing as officials strive to determine the complete sequence of events and the factors that contributed to this tragic accident.

The loss of an 81-year-old life has undoubtedly shaken the community of Salem. The police are committed to thoroughly examining all the evidence and gathering crucial details to shed light on this devastating incident. While the driver's cooperation is appreciated, it will take a comprehensive investigation to ascertain responsibility and bring closure to the victim's family.

Our thoughts go out to the friends and loved ones of John Alvin Schwiewek during this difficult time.