State Police investigate fatal crash in Ava

On November 17, 2024, at about 4:53 a.m., SP Lee was dispatched to a single-vehicle personal injury accident on State Route 26 in the town of Ava.

The investigation determined that 2014 Nissan Rogue was traveling southbound on State Route 26 when it crossed the double yellow line into the opposite lane and exited the east shoulder of the roadway.

The vehicle struck a cement barrier and then a tree. The sole occupant/driver, identified as Betty L. Backer, age 73, from West Lyden, NY, was transported to Rome Memorial Hospital, where she was pronounced deceased.

The State Police were assisted at the scene by West Lyden Fire Department, West Lyden EMS, and NYS Department of Transportation.

The investigation is continuing.