State Police responded to a car vs pedestrian crash on State Route 342 just west of LeRay Street in the town of LeRay on February 22, 2023, at 9:48 p.m.
The incident involved a 2005 Subaru Legacy, driven by 32-year-old Ildar Salakhutdinov, and 17-year-old India I. Willmert, both from Watertown.
According to the preliminary investigation, Salakhutdinov was traveling west on State Route 342 when he encountered Willmert walking in the driving lane, wearing dark clothing. Salakhutdinov was unable to avoid striking Willmert, causing her to be thrown to the south shoulder of State Route 342.
Willmert sustained serious internal injuries and was transported to Samaritan Medical Center. She was later airlifted by Life Flight to Upstate University Hospital, where she was listed in critical condition. Salakhutdinov, on the other hand, was not injured in the crash.
Troopers conducted tests at the scene, which determined negative results for any alcohol/drug impairment. The investigation is continuing to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
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