State Police investigate a fatal crash on Interstate 87 in Schroon Lake after a Ford Transit struck a marked patrol vehicle during a traffic stop

New York – A routine traffic stop on Interstate 87 in Essex County turned tragic Friday afternoon when a multi-vehicle crash left one woman dead and sent two others to the hospital.

According to the New York State Police, the crash happened at approximately 3:35 p.m. on October 3, 2025, in the town of Schroon Lake. Investigators say a State Police member had pulled over a white 2011 Mercedes 350 on the northbound shoulder after observing a vehicle and traffic violation. The Trooper’s marked Chevrolet Tahoe, identified as patrol vehicle 3B24, was parked behind the Mercedes with its emergency lights flashing as the traffic stop was underway.

Moments later, a 2015 Ford Transit traveling northbound slammed into the back of the patrol SUV. The impact triggered a chain reaction involving all three vehicles. The Trooper and the driver of the Mercedes were both outside their vehicles at the time of the crash.

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The operator of the Mercedes, identified as James J. Shinn, and his passenger, Mayne M. Hackett, escaped without injury, though their car sustained minor damage. The State Police member was transported to Glens Falls Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the Ford Transit has been identified as 58-year-old Brian M. Danioski of Baltimore, Maryland. He was also taken to Glens Falls Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Tragically, his passenger, 43-year-old Anne F. Everton, also of Baltimore, was pronounced dead at the scene.

“While the Trooper was conducting the traffic stop, a 2015 Ford Transit traveling northbound struck the rear of the marked State Police vehicle, causing a multi-vehicle collision,” State Police reported.

The highway shoulder remained closed for several hours as State Police collision reconstruction units worked to piece together exactly what led to the deadly crash. Traffic along the busy stretch of Interstate 87 was diverted while emergency crews cleared the scene.

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Authorities say the investigation is still ongoing and no charges have been announced at this time. It remains unclear whether speed, distraction, or other factors contributed to the collision.

The death of Everton marks a grim reminder of the dangers that can arise when vehicles fail to move over or slow down near stopped emergency vehicles. New York’s “Move Over Law” requires drivers to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching emergency or hazard vehicles displaying flashing lights.

As the investigation continues, State Police are urging drivers to remain alert and take extra care when traveling near roadside stops, especially along high-speed corridors like the Adirondack Northway.

This incident remains under active investigation by the New York State Police, officials confirmed.