FATAL CRASH IN WAWAYANDA: 66-YEAR-OLD SLATE HILL MAN KILLED IN SINGLE-VEHICLE COLLISION

FATAL CRASH IN WAWAYANDA: 66-YEAR-OLD SLATE HILL MAN KILLED IN SINGLE-VEHICLE COLLISION

WAWAYANDA, NY — A somber mood hangs over the town of Wawayanda following a fatal crash that claimed the life of a 66-year-old man from Slate Hill on Wednesday morning. According to the New York State Police, troopers responded to a distressing call just before noon regarding a one-car collision on Ridgebury Road. Upon arrival, they found that the vehicle had violently struck a telephone pole, resulting in catastrophic damage.

The crash occurred in a relatively rural stretch of Ridgebury Road, a two-lane roadway that runs through wooded and residential areas. Initial reports indicate that the man was driving alone when, for reasons still under investigation, he lost control of the vehicle. The car veered off the road and crashed head-on into a utility pole, causing significant front-end damage and trapping the driver inside.

Emergency medical personnel and firefighters arrived swiftly at the scene and attempted life-saving measures, but tragically, the driver was pronounced dead at the site. Authorities have not yet released the man’s name, pending notification of his family. However, police confirmed that he was a resident of nearby Slate Hill, a close-knit community within the town of Wawayanda in Orange County.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Troopers are working to determine if speed, a medical event, weather conditions, or mechanical failure may have played a role. Investigators are also examining the vehicle for any signs of malfunction, and toxicology tests will be performed as a standard procedure in fatal crashes.

Traffic in the area was disrupted for several hours as law enforcement conducted a thorough on-site investigation and utility crews worked to repair the damaged pole and restore service to the area. Ridgebury Road was temporarily closed between Greenville Turnpike and Route 6, causing some local detours during the afternoon hours.

News of the fatal crash has rippled through the surrounding community, where the victim was known to many as a friendly and familiar face. Friends and neighbors described him as a hardworking man, devoted to his family and always willing to lend a hand to those in need. As word spread, expressions of grief and condolences began pouring in on social media and in local community groups.

“This is just heartbreaking,” one resident posted. “He was a good man, and it’s such a shock to lose someone so suddenly. My prayers are with his family.”

Local officials also extended their condolences, noting the tragedy underscores the importance of continued investment in road safety and awareness. Town Supervisor Denise Quinn commented, “Our hearts go out to the victim’s family and friends. Any loss of life on our roads is one too many. We remain committed to working with law enforcement and transportation officials to ensure our roads are as safe as possible.”

The New York State Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who may have relevant dash cam footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward as the investigation continues.

Funeral arrangements for the victim are expected to be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, the Wawayanda and Slate Hill communities are coming together in mourning, supporting one another through this sudden and devastating loss.