Isabell Erwin Obituary, Death – The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office has released the identity of the woman killed when two dump trucks collided and crashed into her home, sparking a devastating fire on Thursday morning. Deputies responded shortly after 7:40 a.m. to the area of Culbertson and Harter roads in the town of Sparta, where the crash had been reported.
According to Sheriff Thomas Dougherty, two dump trucks loaded with nearly 20 tons of asphalt each were traveling from Honeoye Falls to North Dansville when one of them experienced a mechanical failure. Investigators believe that the issue caused the truck to lose its brakes, resulting in a collision with the second dump truck. The force of the crash sent both trucks off course and into a house, igniting a fire that quickly consumed the structure.
Emergency crews worked to contain the flames, but it was soon discovered that a resident of the home was unaccounted for. Tragically, 89-year-old Isabell Erwin was later found dead inside the residence. The drivers of the dump trucks survived and were taken to Strong Memorial Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, Dougherty said.
The incident left the community stunned. Sheriff Dougherty described the crash as one of the most tragic and unusual accidents his department has ever dealt with. While the investigation into the crash and Erwin’s death continues, officials have confirmed that the suspected brake failure was a key factor in the chain of events.
Local pastor David Zastrow, who leads Sparta Center Church, spoke emotionally about Erwin, who was a beloved member of his congregation. He had seen her just the night before at Bible study and recalled her remarkable energy and generosity.
“She had the energy of a 30-year-old,” Zastrow said, remembering her laughter and vibrant spirit. “She gave me a big basket of things for my mother, who hasn’t been well. She was just one of a kind.”
Zastrow also shared that Erwin had been an active participant in the church for years, faithfully sitting in the front row and supporting the congregation with warmth and kindness. He said her absence will be deeply felt not only by the church community but also by her family and neighbors.
“I can’t even put it into words,” Zastrow said. “Just smelling the smoke when I arrived brought me to tears. She loved Jesus, loved her family, and loved our church. We know she’s in a far better place now, but the grief is heavy today, and it will be for some time.”
The crash site has become a somber reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike. While investigators continue to examine the mechanical failure that led to the deadly collision, the community of Sparta is mourning the sudden loss of a cherished friend, neighbor, and church member.
For those who knew her, Isabell Erwin will be remembered as a woman full of life, generosity, and faith, whose final moments were marked by an accident that has left a lasting scar on her town.
