Sun Glare Blamed in 10-Vehicle Collision
ROCK HILL, NY – Ten individuals were transported to local hospitals following a 10-vehicle collision on Route 17 near Rock Hill in Sullivan County on Monday morning. According to Sullivan County Undersheriff Eric Chaboty, the incident occurred around 7:45 a.m.
Chaboty explained that the initial cause of the accident appears to be a driver experiencing severe sun glare, which caused them to abruptly reduce their speed. A second driver, also affected by the sun’s intensity, subsequently collided with the rear of the first vehicle. This initial impact initiated a chain reaction, resulting in eight additional vehicles crashing at the scene. A school van, carrying students from the Sullivan West and Liberty school districts, was involved in the incident.
Multiple units from the Sheriff’s and State Police departments responded to the scene, in addition to the Rock Hill Fire Department. Chaboty stated that the extent of injuries sustained by those involved is currently unknown. Ambulance services from Mountaindale, Mamakating, Bethel, Empress, and Sullivan County EMS transported six victims to Garnet Health Medical Center Catskills in Harris, and four victims to Garnet Health Medical Center in Middletown.
The New York State Department of Transportation also provided assistance at the accident site. Undersheriff Chaboty confirmed that an ongoing investigation is underway to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
