Erica L. Collier Obituary, Death – A tragic three-vehicle crash in Madison County on Saturday evening claimed the life of a 27-year-old woman, according to Virginia State Police. The accident occurred around 6:20 p.m. on February 22 along James Madison Highway, just north of Forest Drive.
Authorities reported that the crash began when a Hyundai Elantra traveling north suddenly slowed down. A Toyota Camry following behind was unable to stop in time and rear-ended the Hyundai. The force of the impact caused the Hyundai to veer into the southbound lane, where it collided head-on with a Subaru Crosstrek.
The driver of the Hyundai, identified as Erica L. Collier from the Brightwood area of Madison County, suffered life-threatening injuries. Emergency responders transported her to a local hospital, but despite medical efforts, she later died. Officials confirmed that Collier was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
The driver of the Toyota Camry, 20-year-old Matthew Goins of Gordonsville in Orange County, sustained minor injuries. He was treated at the scene and did not require hospitalization. Police noted that he had been wearing a seatbelt, which likely reduced the severity of his injuries.
The Subaru Crosstrek was driven by a 16-year-old girl from Fairfax County. She also sustained minor injuries but refused medical treatment at the scene. Like Goins, she had been wearing a seatbelt, which may have contributed to her avoiding more serious harm.
Following the crash, authorities charged Goins with following too closely, a traffic violation that may have played a role in the accident. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision, including the reasons behind the Hyundai’s sudden deceleration and whether other factors contributed to the crash.
This tragic accident serves as a reminder of the importance of seatbelt use, as well as maintaining a safe following distance while driving. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine the full details of what led to the fatal crash.