Sleepy Oregon Driver Hits Utility Pole, Starts Fire

A driver fell asleep, crossed Highway 101 and slammed into a utility pole, according to police. The crash broke the pole, caused the lines to fall to the ground and started a fire.It happened at 4:39 p.m. Saturday just north of Gearhart. Investigators said a Jeep Cherokee was heading south on Highway 101 at Cullaby Lake Lane when the driver, identified as Royal Nebeker, 69, of Gearhart, fell asleep. The fire started near the SUV and burned a few surrounding acres before firefighters managed to get the situation under control.