Jhonny Polanco, Robert Clark Jr. Obituary, Death – New York State Police are continuing to investigate a deadly crash involving two vehicles that occurred on the morning of May 4 in the town of Clinton, Dutchess County. The incident took place at approximately 9:30 a.m. on the Taconic State Parkway and tragically resulted in the deaths of both drivers involved.
Authorities reported that the crash involved a southbound Toyota Corolla, which was being driven by 19-year-old Jhonny Polanco, a resident of Bloomingburg, New York. For reasons that have not yet been confirmed, Polanco’s vehicle crossed over the center median and entered the northbound lane of the parkway. As a result, the Corolla collided head-on with a northbound Ford Mustang driven by 30-year-old Robert Clark Jr. of Wappingers Falls.
The impact of the collision was severe. According to police, Polanco was ejected from his vehicle due to the force of the crash, suggesting he may not have been wearing a seatbelt at the time. Meanwhile, Clark was trapped inside his Ford Mustang and could not be removed by emergency responders in time.
Both drivers sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene by emergency personnel. First responders arrived shortly after the crash occurred, but despite their efforts, neither man could be saved.
Following the accident, the New York State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation launched an in-depth investigation to determine the exact circumstances and contributing factors behind the incident. The section of the Taconic State Parkway where the crash took place was temporarily closed to allow for a thorough on-scene examination and cleanup.
Investigators are now working to understand why Polanco’s vehicle veered into oncoming traffic. Factors such as speed, road conditions, possible mechanical failure, or driver distraction are all being considered. Toxicology reports are also expected to be conducted to determine whether impairment played a role in the accident.
Witnesses or individuals who were driving in the area at the time are being asked to come forward if they have any relevant information or dashcam footage that might assist in the investigation. The goal is to piece together a comprehensive picture of what happened in the moments leading up to the crash.
Family and friends of both victims are mourning their sudden and tragic loss. Polanco, only 19 years old, had his whole life ahead of him. He was reportedly a young man with a promising future, and his untimely death has left his community in shock.
Clark, at 30 years old, was also in the prime of his life. Originally from Wappingers Falls, he is remembered by those who knew him as a kind-hearted and hardworking individual. His death has deeply affected his loved ones and the local community.
This tragic incident has once again drawn attention to the risks of high-speed travel on divided highways like the Taconic State Parkway. While the parkway is known for its scenic routes, it has also been the site of numerous serious crashes over the years. State officials and safety advocates continue to urge drivers to exercise caution, wear seatbelts, and stay alert to avoid tragic outcomes like this.
Local authorities have expressed their condolences to the families of both victims. They have also reiterated the importance of road safety and reminded the public that even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to devastating consequences.
At this time, no additional details about the crash have been released. The investigation remains active, and officials say more information will be made available as their findings develop.
In the meantime, the community is grieving the loss of two lives taken far too soon. Flowers and tributes have begun to appear near the crash site as residents honor the memory of Polanco and Clark. For those affected, the pain is profound, and the search for answers continues.