New York State Police Probe Fatal St. Lawrence County Crash That Claimed Life of Tammy Brunette-Kaska, Teens Remain Critically Injured

 New York State Police are investigating a tragic two-vehicle collision in St. Lawrence County that claimed the life of one woman and left multiple family members injured, including three teenagers, in a crash that has shaken the town of Lawrence and surrounding communities. The crash occurred late Friday evening at a rural intersection, prompting a large emergency response and urgent medical transport of all occupants to nearby hospitals for treatment.

According to New York State Police, the crash occurred at approximately 9:19 p.m. on May 29, 2026, at the intersection of County Route 55 and U.S. Route 11 in the town of Lawrence. Investigators say a 55-year-old driver of a Chevrolet Traverse failed to stop at the intersection and entered the path of an eastbound Honda CR-V traveling along U.S. Route 11 identified as Ricky L. DeShane of Brasher Falls.

The impact struck the front passenger side of the Honda CR-V, which was being driven by 49-year-old Jesse P. Kaska of Chateaugay, according to investigators. Inside the vehicle were a front-seat passenger and three teenagers, all from nearby communities, who suffered serious injuries and were transported to Canton-Potsdam Hospital before some were later transferred to Upstate University Hospital for advanced care. Officials confirmed ongoing treatment and recovery monitoring continues now.

Authorities said 53-year-old Tammy Brunette-Kaska, a passenger in the Honda CR-V, was taken to Canton-Potsdam Hospital after the crash. Despite medical intervention, she later died from her injuries and was pronounced deceased at the hospital, marking a devastating outcome for the family as loved ones gathered and began mourning the sudden loss while awaiting further official updates from investigators. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities review all evidence so far.

The crash has deeply affected residents across St. Lawrence County, where family members and neighbors have begun sharing condolences and memories of those involved in the devastating collision. Many residents described the incident as a painful reminder of the risks present at busy rural intersections while urging caution and awareness for all drivers traveling through the region. Officials continue to remind drivers to remain alert at intersections across rural highways.

Authorities with New York State Police continue their investigation into the fatal collision, focusing on roadway conditions, driver actions, and timing at the intersection. Officials say evidence collection and witness statements remain key priorities as they work to reconstruct the events. Updates will be released once verified information is confirmed through the ongoing investigative process as case remains active currently.

Families of the victims continue to cope with the emotional impact of the crash, as loved ones gather support from friends, neighbors, and community members across the region. The sudden nature of the tragedy has left many struggling to process the loss while focusing on recovery for the injured and honoring the memory of those affected by the crash itself.

Local officials and community members continue to extend condolences as the investigation proceeds and families seek healing after the tragic St. Lawrence County crash that claimed multiple lives and injuries.