CARMEL, N.Y. – Authorities have released new details regarding a devastating head-on collision that occurred over the weekend on Stoneleigh Avenue, near Drewville Road, in the Town of Carmel. The crash left a 44-year-old Carmel woman critically injured and another driver hospitalized with serious trauma.
Accident Happened Near Putnam Hospital Center
According to Lieutenant Michael Bodo of the Carmel Police Department, the incident took place around noon on Saturday, just a quarter mile from Putnam Hospital Center. The collision involved two Honda CRVs traveling in opposite directions.
Police report that the Poughkeepsie woman, 23, was driving southbound when she became distracted, veered into the oncoming lane, and struck the Carmel woman’s vehicle head-on. The cause of distraction was not specified, but failure to keep right was cited as the primary contributing factor.
Emergency Response and Rescue Effort
The crash triggered an immediate and coordinated emergency response. Carmel Police, members of the Carmel Fire Department, Carmel Volunteer Ambulance Corps, and personnel from Brewster Emergency Services Corps—who were returning from a previous call at the hospital—rushed to the scene. An Empress paramedic was also dispatched.
Rescuers discovered the Carmel woman trapped in her severely damaged SUV and initiated a 30-minute extrication using the Jaws of Life. Due to the extent of her injuries and massive blood loss, emergency personnel administered a blood transfusion at the scene.
A medivac helicopter was summoned, and the woman was transported from the Putnam Hospital helipad to Westchester Medical Center, where she was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in critical condition.
Poughkeepsie Woman Also Injured
The 23-year-old Poughkeepsie driver sustained serious trauma and was transported via ambulance to Danbury Hospital, where she too was admitted for treatment. Police have not disclosed the specific nature of her injuries.
Charges and Legal Action
Lt. Bodo confirmed that the Poughkeepsie driver has been issued multiple traffic summonses, including for failing to stay in her lane, with court appearances scheduled at Carmel Town Court in the near future.
Identities Withheld
As of Tuesday, the names of the individuals involved have not been released. Police continue to investigate the incident and are evaluating whether further charges may be appropriate.
A Stark Reminder
This serious collision serves as a reminder of the dangers of distracted driving and the potentially life-threatening consequences that can result in just a moment of inattention. Authorities are urging motorists to remain alert and exercise caution, especially on local roads that may appear familiar but still pose significant risks.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information is encouraged to contact the Carmel Police Department.
Leave a Reply