A horrific wrong-way crash on Route 304 has left one driver dead and several others injured. The tragic incident took place on Monday, December 23rd, just before 9:30 PM, when two vehicles collided head-on.
According to reports from Yahoo News, the crash involved a black 2010 Hyundai sedan and a silver 2013 BMW. Initial investigations reveal the unfortunate chain of events: the Hyundai was traveling northbound on the southbound lanes of the route before it struck the BMW just before Second Street around 9:15 PM.
The driver of the Hyundai, identified as a 35-year-old man from Ohio, died at the scene. Meanwhile, two young occupants of the BMW—an 18-year-old male and 16-year-old female—sustained serious injuries. They were quickly transported to Westchester Medical Center for urgent medical care.
The chaotic scene left debris scattered across both sides of Route 304, with heavy damage reported to both vehicles. Authorities closed the roadway between Second Street and Congers Road for several hours, as the Clarkstown Police Department’s Accident Investigation Unit began reconstruction efforts and collected evidence.
Eyewitnesses reported the aftermath of the collision as alarming. There was confusion as vehicles and parts were strewn across the ground, painting a grim picture of the impact.
Investigators noted there is a low metal divider separating the northbound and southbound lanes at the accident site, where vehicles can only turn southbound at the Second Street intersection. Officials are examining whether the divider played any role in the unfortunate events leading to the crash.
Local news sources also indicate concerns about road safety, as this incident adds to worries over wrong-way driving and driver awareness. Following the investigation, local authorities may look to reinforce safety measures on such routes to prevent future tragedies.
The Rockland County community mourns the loss of life and supports the injured, highlighting the need for continuous conversations about road safety practices to avoid such catastrophic mishaps.
