Authorities are continuing to investigate the early morning crash that claimed the life of 35-year-old Rafael William Smith Polanco, a resident of West Point. The fatal accident occurred around 4 a.m. on Saturday as Polanco was driving eastbound on West River Road. According to preliminary reports, his black Ram 1500 pickup truck veered off the left side of the road in the pre-dawn darkness. The vehicle struck several trees before coming to a stop, and the impact was severe enough to eject Polanco from the truck.
He was not wearing a seatbelt at the time, and despite emergency responders arriving quickly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.The road remained closed for several hours as investigators from local law enforcement reconstructed the crash. They examined skid marks, debris, and vehicle damage to determine the sequence of events that led to the tragedy.
At this stage, officials have not identified a specific cause. Factors such as fatigue, speed, mechanical failure, or other distractions are being considered as part of the ongoing investigation.Residents of West Point are mourning the sudden loss of Polanco, who was known as a hardworking and kind-hearted member of the community. Family and friends have expressed deep grief, remembering him as someone full of energy and compassion.
His death serves as a somber reminder of the importance of seatbelt use, particularly during late-night or early-morning hours when visibility and alertness are often reduced.While investigators continue their work, the focus remains on supporting Polanco’s loved ones as they cope with the devastating loss. The community’s condolences reflect how deeply this tragedy has resonated, turning an ordinary stretch of roadway into the site of heartbreaking loss and reflection.
