A tragic head-on collision on U.S. Route 6 in the town of Woodbury, Orange County, resulted in one fatality and left another driver with serious injuries. The devastating crash, which occurred on Tuesday at approximately 5:12 p.m., prompted a significant response from local emergency services and the New York State Police.
According to a preliminary investigation conducted by the New York State Police, the fatal incident involved a 2023 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck and a 2016 Honda Civic CRX. The Dodge Ram, driven by Noely Rafael Vargas, was reportedly traveling eastbound on U.S. Route 6 when it veered across the double yellow line into the opposing lane of traffic. This dangerous maneuver led to a direct, head-on impact with the westbound Honda Civic.
The driver of the Honda Civic, identified as Samantha Lezin, tragically succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials confirmed that Lezin was the sole occupant of her vehicle at the time of the collision.
Following closely behind the Honda Civic was a 2018 Jeep Wrangler, driven by Kiley Genevieve Metcalf. Accompanying Metcalf was passenger Anthony A. Bolivar Sanchez. Fortunately, both Metcalf and Sanchez were uninjured in the incident, despite the proximity to the catastrophic crash.
The driver of the Dodge Ram, Noely Rafael Vargas, sustained leg injuries as a result of the impact. He was transported to Garnet Health Medical Center in Middletown by Kiryas Joel EMS for medical treatment.
The severity of the crash necessitated a comprehensive response from multiple emergency services. The Woodbury Police Department, Woodbury Fire Department, and West Point Fire Department were dispatched to the scene to provide assistance with traffic control, scene safety, and potential extrication efforts. Woodbury EMS and Mobile Life Support Services were also on hand to provide medical care and transportation for the injured party.
The New York State Police have confirmed that the investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine the factors that led to the Dodge Ram crossing into the opposing lane of traffic. This type of investigation typically involves examining vehicle condition, driver behavior, road conditions, and any potential contributing factors such as distraction, impairment, or medical emergencies.
In an effort to gather more information and piece together the events leading up to the collision, the State Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash to come forward. Witnesses are encouraged to contact the State Police Monroe Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) at 845-344-5300. Witness accounts can be crucial in providing a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding such tragic events.
The identification of the victims brings a somber reality to the incident, highlighting the profound impact of traffic accidents on individuals and communities. The loss of Samantha Lezin is a stark reminder of the potential dangers present on our roadways, and the importance of safe driving practices. As the investigation continues, the hope is that the findings will provide clarity and potentially inform efforts to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The community of Woodbury and beyond will undoubtedly mourn the loss and reflect on the fragility of life in the wake of this devastating event.
