Claudia Hargis-Grover Obituary, Death Cause – New York State Police have released more details about a tragic three-vehicle collision that occurred on Interstate 87 in Bethlehem over the weekend, identifying the woman who lost her life as 63-year-old Claudia Hargis-Grover of Glens Falls. Authorities said several others were also taken to the hospital with injuries following the Saturday afternoon crash, which took place near Exit 23 just before 4:45 p.m.
According to the preliminary investigation, the incident began when a 2011 Chevrolet sedan was traveling northbound at a high rate of speed in the left lane. At some point, the driver of the vehicle attempted to merge into the right lane and reportedly sideswiped a Ram pickup truck. The impact caused the Chevrolet sedan to veer back into the left lane, where it struck the rear of a 2025 Chevrolet sedan. The force of the collision sent the newer Chevrolet sedan off course and into a nearby guardrail.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene to find the vehicles with extensive damage and several people in need of medical attention. Sadly, Hargis-Grover, who had been driving the 2025 Chevrolet, was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. Her death was confirmed by the State Police on Monday.
A passenger who had been riding with Hargis-Grover was taken to Albany Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, police said. The driver and passenger of the Ram pickup were also transported to Albany Memorial Hospital for evaluation and were later reported to be in stable condition.
Authorities said the driver of the 2011 Chevrolet sedan — the vehicle believed to have initiated the chain of events — remained at the scene and fully cooperated with investigators. Troopers conducted standardized field sobriety tests and a preliminary breath test, both of which showed no signs of impairment or alcohol involvement. The driver was later taken to Albany Medical Center for a medical assessment as a precaution.
While impairment has been ruled out, investigators cited speed and unsafe lane movement as key factors that may have contributed to the crash. The driver of the 2011 Chevrolet has since been charged with multiple vehicle and traffic law violations, though authorities have not specified the exact charges as the investigation remains active.
The crash prompted a temporary closure of northbound lanes on I-87 near Exit 23 as State Police and emergency crews worked to assist victims and clear debris from the roadway. The closure caused significant delays for motorists traveling through the area on Saturday evening.
State Police said that their Collision Reconstruction Unit and Bureau of Criminal Investigation are continuing to examine the evidence, including vehicle data, tire marks, and eyewitness accounts, to determine the full sequence of events leading to the collision. Investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage from nearby traffic cameras to better understand how the crash unfolded.
Authorities extended their condolences to the family of Claudia Hargis-Grover, describing the event as a deeply unfortunate loss. “This was a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the victim,” a spokesperson for the New York State Police said.
As the investigation continues, officials are reminding all motorists to remain attentive behind the wheel, obey posted speed limits, and exercise caution when changing lanes — particularly on high-speed highways where even small errors can lead to serious consequences.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information that could assist investigators is encouraged to contact the New York State Police Troop G office in Latham. Tips can also be provided anonymously through the State Police website or local crime reporting channels.
This incident marks yet another reminder of the importance of roadway safety as authorities across New York continue their efforts to reduce collisions and fatalities on the state’s highways.
