Jennifer Burke Obituary, Death – State Police are investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred early Wednesday morning on Route 9W in the Town of Esopus. Authorities said the collision involved a small passenger car and a sport utility vehicle and resulted in the death of a local woman.
According to police, the crash happened shortly after 6 a.m. while traffic was moving through the area. A woman in her early 60s from Port Ewen was driving north when her vehicle entered the opposite lane and collided with another car traveling in the opposite direction. The impact caused significant damage, and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene.
The woman was pronounced dead at the location of the crash. Officials identified her later after notifying family members. No additional information has been released about what may have caused her vehicle to leave its lane, and investigators say it is too early to determine whether weather, road conditions, or a medical issue played a role.
The driver of the second vehicle, a man from West Park in his late 40s, was treated by emergency personnel and taken to a nearby hospital as a precaution. Police said his injuries were not considered life-threatening, and he is expected to recover.
State Police temporarily restricted traffic in the area while emergency crews worked at the scene and investigators documented evidence. The roadway was later reopened once the vehicles were removed and it was deemed safe for travel. Motorists were advised to use caution in the area during the morning commute due to delays.
Officials emphasized that investigations into serious crashes often take time, as they involve reviewing physical evidence, vehicle data, and witness statements. At this stage, no citations or charges have been announced, and police say the incident appears to be a tragic accident.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have seen the crash or noticed unusual driving behavior in the moments before it occurred to contact State Police to assist with the investigation. Information from the public can help investigators better understand what happened and determine whether additional safety measures are needed along that stretch of road.
Police also used the incident to remind drivers about the importance of staying alert, obeying traffic laws, and exercising caution, especially during early morning hours when visibility and reaction times may be reduced. Officials encourage all motorists to prioritize safety to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details may be released as more information becomes available.
