Binghamton, NY (October 9, 2025) – One person died Thursday after a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 81 in Binghamton that left a truck on fire, according to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office.
Accident Details: Deputies said the collision happened around 11:05 a.m. on I-81 south at the Exit 12 off-ramp. Responders arrived to find a U-Haul truck towing a vehicle on fire with the driver trapped inside. Personnel from the sheriff’s office and the New York State Department of Transportation worked to extinguish the flames before the driver was extricated and taken to UHS Wilson Medical Center, where the person was pronounced dead at about 12:40 p.m. Initial findings indicate a red SUV traveling south from Route 17 attempted to merge across several lanes to take the Exit 12 off-ramp and struck the U-Haul, causing the truck’s driver to lose control and collide with a NYSDOT attenuator truck. The crash involved three vehicles and led to lane closures and significant delays in the area as crews cleared debris and investigated.
Investigation: The Broome County Sheriff’s Accident Reconstruction Unit is leading the investigation. Detectives are analyzing vehicle positions, impact points, and debris patterns to confirm how the SUV’s lane changes precipitated the sequence of impacts. They are also reviewing video sources and statements from involved drivers and witnesses. Authorities have not released the deceased driver’s identity pending notification of next of kin. No citations or charges had been announced as of Thursday afternoon.
Legal Considerations: Crashes involving trucks and multiple vehicles often raise complex questions about lane usage, safe merging, and speed for conditions. Determining liability may include analyzing event timelines, dashcam or roadway camera footage, and compliance with safety rules for both commercial and passenger vehicles. Families of those killed may pursue wrongful death claims to recover funeral costs, loss of support, and other damages if negligence is established. Injured survivors may also seek compensation for medical expenses and lost wages.
This was a devastating midday incident for the traveling public and the victim’s loved ones. I extend heartfelt condolences to the family and hope those impacted find support during this difficult time.
Source: WBNG