URGENT UPDATE: A tragic motor vehicle accident in Hamilton, NY has resulted in the death of a 70-year-old woman. The incident occurred on October 19, 2023, at approximately 4:54 p.m., prompting an immediate response from the Madison County Sheriff’s Office.
Initial reports indicate that a 2018 Nissan Rogue, driven by Austin Thurlow, 18, of Cheektowaga, was traveling eastbound on Tackabury Road when it attempted to turn north onto State Route 12. In a devastating turn of events, Thurlow’s vehicle entered the path of a southbound 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 3500, operated by Julia Dillon, 34, of Hamilton, which was towing a horse trailer.
The collision was severe. Dillon’s Silverado struck Thurlow’s Nissan, resulting in critical injuries to a passenger in Thurlow’s vehicle, identified as Laurie Jones, 70, of East Amherst. Emergency personnel rushed Jones to Hamilton Hospital, where she tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.
Authorities shut down State Route 12 between Excell Road and Tackabury Road for several hours to conduct a thorough investigation and reconstruct the scene of the collision. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office is currently examining causal factors, and the investigation is ongoing.
Officials urge any witnesses to this horrific incident to come forward and contact the Criminal Investigations Division at (315) 366-2311.
Support at the scene was provided by multiple agencies, including the New York State Police, Hamilton Police Department, New York State DOT, Madison County EMS, and the Hubbardsville Fire Department.
This incident highlights the urgent need for road safety awareness as communities mourn the loss of a life. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate, and updates will be provided as they become available.
