State Police report that a patrol vehicle was hit during a Route 23 traffic stop in the Town of Cairo resulting in injuries and one fatality

New York – A routine traffic stop along a busy stretch of Route 23 in the Town of Cairo quickly turned tragic on the evening of November 17, 2025. According to information released by the New York State Police, two Troopers from the Catskill barracks were carrying out a standard vehicle and traffic law stop when an unrelated vehicle approached from behind and collided with their patrol car.

The incident happened at approximately 5:23 p.m., a time when daylight is fading and traffic can grow unpredictable. The Troopers, who had stepped out of their vehicle to speak with the driver they had pulled over, were not inside the patrol car when it was hit. The impact left both Troopers with non-life-threatening injuries, prompting immediate medical attention. They were taken to nearby hospitals for evaluation and, after treatment, were released later that evening.

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Authorities identified the driver of the vehicle that struck the patrol car as 69-year-old Sharon L. Torres of the Town of Cairo. Despite emergency efforts, Torres was pronounced deceased at the scene. No further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the collision have been released, and investigators have not yet stated what factors may have contributed to the crash.

State Police say the investigation remains active as they review evidence and speak with those involved. The agency is calling on anyone who may have been traveling through the area at the time to come forward with information. “The State Police is asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident to contact SP Middletown at 845.344.5300.” Officials noted that “No additional information is being released at this time.”

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The collision serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by police officers conducting roadside duties, even during what appears to be a standard traffic stop. As investigators continue to examine the events surrounding the crash, the community is left reflecting on a tragic loss and hoping for the full recovery of the injured Troopers.