Verbatim Press Release from VSP:
At 3:55 p.m. Friday (Dec. 20), Virginia State Police Trooper J.P. Campbell responded to a crash involving a horse-drawn buggy in Buckingham County. The crash occurred on Route 60 near High School Road.
The buggy was traveling east on Route 60 when it was struck from the rear by an eastbound 2015 Chevrolet Silverado pickup.The buggy was equipped with flashing lights and a reflective triangle.
The driver of the Silverado, George M. Lee, 67, of Buckingham, Va., was not injured in the crash.
There was a Buckingham County family of six riding in the enclosed, two-horse buggy. John Yoder, 36, who was seated outside, was thrown from the buggy when it was struck. Four children – two boys and two girls ranging in age from 2 years to 10 years old were transported to UVA Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries. Sylvia Yoder, 31, was transported to UVA Medical Center and succumbed to her injuries Saturday morning (Dec. 21).
Lee was charged with reckless driving. Alcohol was not a factor in the crash, which remains under investigation.
One of the two horses had to be euthanized at the scene. The other horse was transported from the scene by a vet for treatment of injuries sustained in the crash.
Corinne N. Geller
Public Relations Director
Virginia State Police
IMO, when a driver causes even one person to lose their life, I don’t think they should ever be allowed to drive again. I hope his drivers license is revoked permanently. No amount of money can ever compensate that family for the member who is lost to them.