Columbia County, NY (WRGB) – A tragic incident occurred on Friday morning in Columbia County when a fatal crash took place, believed to be caused by a medical emergency.

The authorities were alerted to the scene of a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Fish and Game Rd in Claverack, on Route 66, shortly after 10 am.

Upon investigation, law enforcement confirmed that two vehicles were involved in the collision. The driver of one vehicle was found to be in a serious condition and was promptly transported to Columbia Memorial Health in Hudson by the Greenport Rescue Squad.

Tragically, the driver, identified as 56-year-old William Healy from Walden, NY, was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

The incident occurred when Healy, operating a 2013 Honda Ridgeline, was traveling southbound on State Route 66. For reasons yet to be determined, he crossed the yellow line and collided with a vehicle heading north on the same road.

The second vehicle involved was a Peterbilt tow truck, and fortunately, the driver emerged unharmed from the accident.

Additionally, a telephone pole supporting telecommunication lines was struck and broken as a result of the collision.

The New York State Department of Transportation promptly arrived at the scene to assist with road closure. State Route 66 was closed to traffic between Fish and Game Road and Stottville Road from approximately 10:05 am. The road remained closed until fully reopening at around 4:30 pm.

Providing support alongside the Sheriff’s Office, the Claverack Fire Department, Columbia County Fire Coordinator’s Office, and the New York State Department of Transportation worked collaboratively to manage the incident.