Crystal Michelle Lyles, Ernesto Santiago Obituary, Death – Speeding and alcohol have been cited as key contributing factors in a deadly head-on collision that occurred on the Robert O. Norris Jr. Bridge in Lancaster County, Virginia, according to a report from the Virginia State Police.
The crash took place on Sunday, July 13, 2025, around 6:53 p.m. and resulted in the deaths of two individuals. Authorities identified the victims on Monday as 42-year-old Crystal Michelle Lyles from White Stone, Virginia, and 53-year-old Ernesto Santiago of Hampton, Virginia.
According to a statement released by the Virginia State Police, the crash involved three vehicles: a 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350 SUV, a 2024 Subaru Outback, and a 2014 Ford Fusion. Investigators found that the Mercedes-Benz, driven by 30-year-old Jesse David Foster, also of White Stone, was traveling westbound on Route 3 at a high speed. While trying to pass another vehicle in the eastbound lane, Foster sideswiped the Subaru Outback before crashing head-on into the Ford Fusion.
Lyles, who was a passenger in the Mercedes-Benz, was thrown from the vehicle during the impact and died at the scene. Santiago, who was driving the Ford Fusion, also died from his injuries at the site of the crash. Foster survived the wreck and was airlifted to a hospital for treatment, although his current medical condition has not been disclosed by authorities.
The driver of the Subaru Outback, a 27-year-old whose name was not released, was reportedly unharmed in the collision.
The police investigation further revealed that neither Foster, Lyles, nor Santiago was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. This lack of seatbelt use may have contributed to the severity of the injuries sustained. Authorities have confirmed that both speed and alcohol played significant roles in the crash, though toxicology results and further details have not yet been released.
The Virginia State Police Division One Crash Reconstruction Team is assisting with the ongoing investigation to determine the full sequence of events and confirm all contributing factors. As part of their efforts, they will also be reviewing data from the vehicles and collecting eyewitness accounts, if available.
The crash caused structural damage to the Robert O. Norris Jr. Bridge, prompting the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to shut down the eastbound lane for emergency inspections. The bridge will remain partially closed until it is deemed safe for full use again.
This tragic incident has raised renewed concerns about speeding, impaired driving, and the importance of seat belt use. Community members are mourning the loss of Lyles and Santiago, while authorities continue to urge drivers to exercise caution and responsibility on the roads. Updates are expected as the investigation progresses and repair work on the bridge continues.
