OSWEGO COUNTY, N.Y. — Tuesday’s holiday was not too lucky for several motorists in the state of New York.
According to a release from the New York State Police (NYSP), at approximately 1:10 p.m., the agency, along with the Oswego County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 81 southbound, south of Exit 126 in the city of Richland.
Police say the preliminary investigation determined that the primary crash involved approximately 20 vehicles, including six big rigs. In addition, police say approximately 20 other vehicles were in the area but were not directly involved and sustained no damage.
The crash is believed to be weather-related due to whiteout conditions.
Two minor injuries were reported as a result of the incident, and Interstate 81 has since reopened.
Additional accidents occurred throughout the day on Tuesday. Shortly after 8:00 a.m., State Police responded to an overturned utility truck in the median of the Thruway in Newstead. The investigation revealed that Jonathan J. Francis, 66, of Ontario, Canada was operating the 2010 Freightliner utility truck, traveling eastbound near mile marker 405, when he lost control. He exited the roadway and overturned into the median. Francis and his passenger, a 20-year-old male from Ontario, were transported to Erie County Medical Center with minor injuries. Traffic was not impacted, and the truck was later removed.
Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. During his nearly 20-year career, Bruce has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications. He and his wife, Dana, who is also a journalist, are based in Carrollton, Georgia.
