State Police at Brewster continue investigation into fatal crash on State Route 312 that claimed the life of a Carmel woman in the town of Southeast

Southeast, New York – State Police at Brewster are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred early Tuesday morning on State Route 312 in the town of Southeast. The collision, which happened around 7:46 a.m. on October 21, 2025, involved two vehicles and resulted in the death of one driver.

According to a preliminary investigation, a Honda CRV driven by Eleana S. Silk, 74, of Carmel, New York, was traveling eastbound when, for reasons still under investigation, it crossed into the westbound lane. The vehicle then collided head-on with a 2023 Freightliner operated by Richard G. Medina, 57, of New Fairfield, Connecticut.

Read also: Greater Rochester Chamber Foundation calls on local businesses to support the 2025 SBC Cares Thanksgiving Appeal for families in need

Emergency responders arrived at the scene within minutes. Despite efforts by first responders, Silk was pronounced deceased at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. Authorities confirmed that Medina was not injured.

State Police at Brewster immediately secured the area, temporarily closing a portion of State Route 312 to allow investigators to process the scene and remove the damaged vehicles. The investigation is ongoing as troopers work to determine the cause of the crash, including whether any medical emergency or other contributing factors were involved.

Incidents like this serve as a sobering reminder of how quickly conditions on the road can change, even during a routine morning commute. Route 312, a busy connector through the town of Southeast, is often traveled by both local residents and commercial vehicles, making driver awareness and caution especially important.

Read also: RCSD Unified Flag Football teams celebrate the end of an inspiring season with final games at Monroe High School

State Police have not released additional details as the investigation continues. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the New York State Police at Brewster barracks.

The New York State Police extend their condolences to the family and friends of Eleana S. Silk as they continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.