State Police launch investigation after deadly single-vehicle crash shuts down Route 12 in Deerfield

Deerfield, New York – A tragic accident unfolded Saturday evening in the town of Deerfield, leaving one person dead and prompting a full investigation by New York State Police.

At around 7:34 p.m. on April 12, troopers from the Marcy barracks responded to reports of a serious crash on State Route 12, near the Trenton Road overpass in Oneida County. When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered a single vehicle that had crashed and caught fire. Inside, one person was found deceased.

Authorities say the vehicle had been heading north on Route 12 when, for reasons still unknown, it veered off the road. It then crossed over the median and slammed into a bridge post. The impact caused the car to ignite in flames, which had fully engulfed the vehicle by the time firefighters from the Deerfield Fire Department arrived.

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“The vehicle subsequently caught fire and was fully engulfed upon the arrival of the Deerfield Fire Department,” the State Police confirmed.

Investigators have yet to determine what led to the crash. At this stage, no further details have been released about the make or model of the vehicle, and the name of the deceased is being withheld until family members can be notified.

“A preliminary investigation determined that a vehicle was traveling northbound on State Route 12 when, for unknown reasons, it left the roadway, crossed the center median, and struck a bridge post,” officials said.

Emergency crews shut down State Route 12 in both directions at the Trenton Road overpass shortly after the crash. The closure remains in effect as investigators continue their work at the scene. Drivers are being asked to stay away from the area and use other routes if possible.
“State Route 12 remains closed in both directions at the Trenton Road overpass as investigators work at the scene. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes,” police added.

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The incident has shocked the local community and serves as a grim reminder of how quickly things can turn on the road. With the cause still undetermined, investigators are expected to conduct further analysis, including a review of the vehicle’s condition, weather conditions at the time, and any potential signs of driver impairment or distraction.

No further information has been made available at this time. State Police said updates will be released once more facts are confirmed.

“Updates will be provided as they become available.”

As the investigation continues, residents in the Deerfield area remain shaken by the unexpected loss, and authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to come forward.