New York State Police Identify Victims in Fatal Crash on State Route 17 in Nichols

New York State Police Identify Victims in Fatal Crash on State Route 17 in Nichols

Nichols, N.Y. — Authorities have identified the victims of a deadly two-vehicle collision that occurred early Monday morning on State Route 17 in Nichols, New York.

The crash, reported around 4:30 a.m., claimed the lives of 45-year-old Frank D. Dempke of Reading, Pennsylvania, and 45-year-old Elbia Carlos of Newark, New Jersey. Police say both individuals died at the scene when their vehicle struck a guardrail and overturned.

According to preliminary reports, Dempke was driving when the vehicle lost control for unknown reasons, veered off the roadway, and rolled over before coming to rest along the highway. Emergency responders were dispatched immediately, but both victims were pronounced dead on-site. The accident caused extended lane closures as authorities investigated and cleared debris.

The New York State Police are continuing to review evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, to determine contributing factors such as speed, road conditions, or driver error.

Community members in Nichols and beyond have expressed sorrow over the tragedy, remembering Dempke and Carlos as kind-hearted individuals whose lives ended too soon. Tributes have poured in from friends and loved ones mourning their sudden loss.

Officials used the incident to remind motorists of the importance of safe driving—urging caution, seatbelt use, and avoiding distractions while traveling New York’s busy highways.

Both Dempke and Carlos leave behind grieving families and communities that will carry their memory forward.