Virginia State Police Investigate Fatal Crash in Clarke County, Driver Charged with DUI

On Saturday, October 26, a tragic single-vehicle crash in Clarke County, Virginia, left a 16-year-old girl dead and others injured. Virginia State Police reported that the crash occurred at 7:54 p.m. on River Road, south of River View Farm Lane.

                                                                  Dillion M. Coe from Bluemont, Va.

The 2003 Toyota Avalon, driven by a 21-year-old, was heading southbound in the northbound lane on River Road when it suddenly swerved to the right, veered off the road, and struck a tree. The collision caused the vehicle to catch fire, leading to extensive damage.

Coe sustained minor injuries in the crash and was taken to Winchester Medical Center for treatment. Tragically, a 16-year-old female passenger from Bluemont was killed at the scene. Two other passengers in the vehicle, another 16-year-old girl and a 26-year-old man, were also injured. The young girl suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to Winchester Medical Center along with the male passenger, who had minor injuries.

Due to the severe fire damage to the vehicle, it remains unclear if any occupants were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Following his medical evaluation, Coe was taken into custody and faces multiple serious charges, including driving under the influence (DUI), involuntary manslaughter, and DUI maiming. He was transported to the Northwestern Adult Detention Center, where he is being held without bond.

Virginia State Police continue to investigate the incident and seek any additional information. Witnesses or anyone with relevant information are urged to contact Virginia State Trooper N. Hobbs at 540-869-2000 or via email at questions@vsp.virginia.gov.