Police Investigate Fatal Collision in Columbia County

Police are investigating a fatal collision in Columbia County that claimed the life of a 13 year-old child. 

Police are investigating the fatal collision that occurred Thursday evening on Route 9 in the the Town of Kinderhook.

An initial investigation indicated that a  2015 Subaru Crosstrek being operated by 74 year old Judith Gagliardi of Chatham NY was traveling southbound on Route 9, making a left-hand turn onto Route 28.

While making the turn Gagliardi collided with a 2004 Honda Civic traveling northbound while being operated by 27 year old Donna Preuss of Philmont, NY. Gagliardi and her passenger, Wilma Westover of Niverville, NY, along with Preuss were transported to Albany Medical Center to be treated for their injuries.

Two passengers in Pruess' vehicle, 17 year-old Sabrina  Martinez and 28 year old David Zukowski were both transported to Albany Medical Center to be treated for their injuries as well, according to a press release.

A 13 year-old in the rear passenger seat of  Pruess' vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene. The identity of the 13 year-old child is being withheld at this time so the family can be fully notified.

The incident remains under investigation, but thus far there is no indication either driver was impaired by alcohol or drugs. Investigators are trying to determine if all the passengers in the vehicles were wearing their seatbelts.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the State Police in Livingston at 518-851-2001.