Briefs for Jan. 3, 2026
Published 4:11 pm Friday, January 2, 2026
Warrenton police officer hit by car while directing traffic, treated for minor injuries
Warrenton police officer Robert Writ was struck by a car while directing traffic around a motorcycle accident on Highway 101 around 5:10 p.m. on Tuesday.
Writ sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital where he was treated for his injuries and later released, according to a press release by the department.
The department thanked the bystanders who helped the officer, as well as the Medix Ambulances and firefighters who arrived to assist him.
The motorcycle accident is still under investigation by Oregon State Police.
A press release about the incidents sent by the Warrenton police department reminded drivers to remain cautious when driving through emergency sites.
Astoria DMV back in business
The Oregon DMV Astoria office at 705 W. Marine Dr. reopened Dec. 23 and resumed normal hours. The office had been closed since Dec. 12 due to a broken water supply line that flooded the office.
Road work for week of Jan. 5
Crews will be installing two culverts on Nordlund-McCoy Lane, performing ditch maintenance in Astoria, Knappa, and Jewell districts, and grading gravel roads in the Knappa and Astoria districts.
Six tips for 2026
The Oregon Health Authority sent tips and or resolutions for the new year that can help Oregonians live a healthier life, according to a press release.
1. Quit tobacco
Free help is available. Contact the Oregon Quit Line at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or at quitnow.net/oregon or in Spanish at 1-855-DÉJELO-YA or online at quitnow.net/oregonsp.
2. Get vaccinated for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and pertussis
Respiratory syncytial virus is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, each year, RSV leads to significant numbers of hospitalizations nationwide.
The vaccine for pertussis (whooping cough), DTaP, is a combination of vaccines for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. Vaccination for pertussis is required in Oregon for children and adolescents and recommended for adults.
3. Get vaccinated for influenza and COVID-19
The seasonal flu vaccine is recommended for everyone age 6 months and older and the seasonal COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for children under 2 years, adults over 64, and anyone 2-64 years at increased risk for severe illness such as people with underlying medical conditions and those who live in congregate facilities. Both vaccines are available through pharmacies and health providers.
4. Eat better.
The CDC has ideas for having healthier meals and snacks, and tips for healthy eating to maintain a healthy weight.
5. Rethink the drink
OHA’s Rethink the Drink resources can help people cut back on their drinking or reduce the impact that excessive drinking has in their communities.
6. Reach out for help when you need it
In Oregon, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for people experiencing any type of mental health challenge, substance use crisis or thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Anyone can call, text or chat in English and Spanish (interpretation services and American Sign Language are also available) and connect with trained crisis counselors. The 988 Lifeline is also a resource for friends and families concerned about a loved one.
— The Astorian
