Sullivan County, NY — Two young lives were tragically lost on Christmas Day following a devastating car crash on Route 52, leaving the community in mourning.
Hannah Reggio, 17, from Middletown, and Joseph Young, 15, from Fallsburg, have been identified as the victims. The crash occurred when a pickup truck collided with a car near Sullivan Avenue. The 57-year-old driver of the pickup truck was treated for his injuries and later released from medical care. While the cause of the accident is still under investigation, community members have expressed their disbelief and heartache over the incident.
“It’s crazy, it’s devastating,” said Dijha Hernandez, a Sullivan County resident. “It’s heartbreaking for the community.”
As news of the crash spread, friends and family of the two teens began gathering in Liberty, where they have created a memorial on Sullivan Avenue. Candles and flowers have been placed along the roadside in honor of the young lives lost.
Joseph Young’s friend, Elliot Hernandez, spoke fondly of him, saying, “[Joseph] always had a smile on his face, and I just loved that about him. He was a good person, a good soul.” Hernandez, who had been friends with Young since eighth grade, expressed his pain over the loss: “I’m doing good, trying to hold in there because there’s not much I can do.” Hernandez also reflected on the cherished memories he has of their friendship, saying, “He always supported me. I’ll forever cherish those moments.”
The news of Young’s death has hit especially hard since his birthday was just two days before the crash. Friends describe him as someone who was always full of life and positivity, and his sudden passing has left many in disbelief.
Reggio, a student at the Middletown School District, was also deeply loved by her peers. School officials released a statement saying, “Hannah touched many lives and her absence leaves a deep void in our school community.” The district is offering counseling and support to students and staff who are struggling to cope with the tragic loss. Teachers, classmates, and friends alike are left with heavy hearts as they come to terms with the death of a vibrant young woman.
While the cause of the crash remains unclear, the loss of these two young lives has left a hole in the fabric of the Sullivan County community. Residents have come together to support one another during this incredibly difficult time, offering condolences, sharing memories, and lighting candles in tribute to the teens.
Dwight Booth, a Woodridge resident, summed up the collective grief when he said, “It’s just sad. I’m not sure exactly what happened or why it happened, but it’s a sad thing.”
As the community continues to mourn, they are united in remembering the lives of Hannah Reggio and Joseph Young, whose bright futures were tragically cut short on that fateful Christmas Day.
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