According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, on…

According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, on October 31, 2020 at approximately 8:15 PM, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a motor vehicle accident with physical injuries on State Route 5 in the Town of Vernon.

Based on investigation, Deputies determined that Devonte Dixon, age 20 of Utica, NY was operating a 2015 Kia Sorrento Westbound on State Route 5 when he crossed the double yellow lines into the Eastbound lane in order to pass two other vehicles. As Dixon was passing the vehicles he approached a hillcrest and was unable see oncoming traffic. Dixon then struck a 2009 Kia Borrego being operated by Henry Esser, age 77 of Whitesboro, NY. After the collision, Dixon lost control of his vehicle and struck a utility pole. Esser’s front seat passenger, Patricia Esser, age 75 of Whitesboro, NY was treated on scene for a small laceration to her hand and signed off on transport. No other injuries were reported. Dixon was issued 5 uniform traffic tickets returnable to Vernon Town Court at a later date. Due to the MVA, State Route 5 was closed from Route 26 to Churton Rd.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by Vernon Fire Department, Vernon Police Department and Vineall Ambulance.

As of 11:59 PM, Route 5 is now open.