Two hurt in head-on collision in Washoe Valley

Two people were injured Monday in a lunchtime collision in Washoe Valley.

According to Trooper Chuck Allen, a silver 1991 Mitsubishi Montero driven by Robert Jorgenson, 66, of Blanding, Utah, was northbound in front of the Chocolate Nugget on Highway 395 about 12:20 p.m. when the Mitsubishi crossed the center line.

The SUV struck a southbound 2006 Chevrolet pickup driven by Robert Sheaffer, of Carson City.

"The road turned to the right and Jorgenson didn't turn. There was no braking and no skid marks. It was a pretty direct head-on collision," Allen said.

The vehicles came to rest in the southbound lanes of the highway facing each other.

Jorgenson had to be extricated from his vehicle and was flown to Renown Medical Center in Reno with life-threatening injuries.

Sheaffer was also taken to Renown Medical Center by ground ambulance for head and neck injuries. Both drivers were wearing seat belts and alcohol does not appear to be a factor.

Allen said traffic in both directions was routed through the northbound lanes.

Anyone who witnessed the accident is asked to call Trooper Kara Kelly at (775) 688-2500.