MADRAS, OR -- A California family was northbound on Highway 97 north of Madras, Thursday afternoon, when OSP investigators say the driver crossed the center line and collided with a semi truck.  

According to Oregon State Police, 38-year-old Eduardo Martinez-Pureco, of California, was taken by air ambulance to St. Charles Bend with serious injuries. His four passengers, all relatives, were taken by ground ambulance to St. Charles madras with various injuries.

Investigators say the driver of the semi swerved to try and avoid the collision, but the SUV struck the rear wheels of the tractor. The tractor trailer combination left the highway and rolled on its side. The semi truck driver, also of California, was unhurt.

Martinez-Pureco was later cited for careless driving.