A tragic road accident in Claverack, New York, has left four people dead—including three Bangladeshis—and two others seriously injured. Among the victims were a father and son from the same family. A one-year-old Bangladeshi child and her mother remain in critical condition.
The crash occurred around 7 p.m. local time on Monday on State Route 9H near Van Wyck Road, approximately 117 miles from New York City and 30 miles from the state capital, Albany. Authorities said a Toyota Prius suddenly crossed the center line and collided head-on with an oncoming Toyota Crown.
Nazmul Robel, 29, a Bangladeshi resident of Loudonville, was killed at the scene. Two passengers in the same vehicle—Mohammed Heramon, 60, and Fahim Halim, 25, both from the Bronx—also died on the spot.
Two other passengers in the Prius, Fatima Akter, 33, and a one-year-old child, were critically injured and taken to the hospital.
In the other vehicle, Julia Ritchie, 62, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, Luka Palvenian, 24, was treated and later released.
A large emergency response followed the crash, and the roadway remained closed for nearly four hours. Both vehicles were severely damaged, with debris and oil scattered across the scene.
Columbia County Sheriff Jackie Salvatore said the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation. Authorities do not believe impaired driving, weather, or road conditions were contributing factors.
However, local residents and drivers have raised concerns about speeding in the area, noting that sharp, blind curves along the road make it particularly dangerous.
The Sheriff’s Office said the investigation is ongoing.