Truck crashes into World War I monument in Astoria, Oregon

ASTORIA, Ore. – A driver has damaged an Oregon monument that was built to commemorate the soldiers who fought in World War I.

The Daily Astorian reported 77-year-old Kent Johnson, of Astoria, was flown to a Portland hospital after Thursday’s crash, which may have been caused by a medical emergency.

Johnson’s pickup struck what’s known as the Doughboy Monument, constructed in 1926. Astoria Fire Lt. Terry Corbit said the memorial has been hit before, but not to this extent.

Astoria Parks and Recreation Department said on its website that the monument and its restrooms will be closed until further notice. Renovation work scheduled for early September will be delayed as the city comes up with a repair plan.