Scott, NY (February 12, 2026) – Ward Dukelow (86) passed away from injuries suffered in a head-on collision with a tractor-trailer on Route 41. His wife, Joann Dukelow (82), was critically injured in the same crash.
Incident Details: On February 12, 2026, around 10:20 a.m., authorities responded to a crash involving a tractor-trailer and an SUV on State Route 41 in the town of Scott.
Ward Dukelow was driving the SUV with his wife, Joann, in the car. Both were transported to Upstate University Hospital for their injuries. Ward passed away on February 19 from his injuries, and Joann was critically injured.
The driver of the tractor-trailer, William Schuessler (63), was not injured in the collision.
Authorities have not determined the cause of the crash, and no tickets have been issued or charges filed.
Investigation: Authorities are continuing to investigate the head-on collision on State Route 41 in the town of Scott involving a tractor-trailer and an SUV. Because no cause has yet been determined, investigators will work to reconstruct the crash by examining vehicle damage, roadway markings, skid patterns, and the final positions of the vehicles. They will likely also review witness statements, electronic data from the tractor-trailer, and any available surveillance or dash camera footage to determine whether speed, lane departure, mechanical failure, distraction, or a medical emergency played a role.
Until the investigation is complete, officials have not issued tickets or filed charges, and determining fault will depend on the evidence gathered.
Legal Considerations: Head-on collisions involving commercial tractor-trailers often raise significant liability questions, particularly when serious or fatal injuries occur. If the investigation ultimately shows that the tractor-trailer driver crossed lanes or failed to operate the vehicle safely, civil liability may apply.
In commercial truck crashes, investigators may also evaluate company policies, driver training, maintenance records, and hours-of-service compliance to determine whether additional responsibility exists beyond the individual driver.
If negligence is established, Ward Dukelow’s surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim to recover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship. Joanna Dukelow may also have a personal injury claim to seek compensation for medical costs, long-term care, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from her critical injuries.
My deepest condolences go out to the Dukelow family as they mourn Ward’s passing. I sincerely hope Joanna makes a full and steady recovery from her injuries.
Source: 607 News Now