A devastating crash on **Route 12** has left one woman dead and a community grieving after a sudden turn ended in tragedy. According to state police, the accident occurred when **18-year-old Austin Thurlow** attempted to turn his **Nissan Rogue** onto the highway from **Tackabury Road**, inadvertently pulling directly into the path of an oncoming **Chevrolet Silverado**.
The pickup truck, driven by **Julia Dillon**, was towing a heavy horse trailer at the time and was unable to stop in time to avoid impact.The collision was severe. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, where they found the Nissan Rogue heavily damaged and its occupants trapped inside. Firefighters worked quickly to extricate both individuals from the wreckage. **
Laurie Jones**, 70, who had been riding as a passenger in the Rogue, sustained life-threatening injuries. She was transported to a nearby hospital but tragically **succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival**.Authorities report that Dillon and Thurlow both sustained minor injuries but are expected to recover. The horse inside the trailer was also examined by animal control and appeared unharmed.
Investigators closed a portion of Route 12 for several hours as they reconstructed the scene, working to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the deadly crash.Police have not indicated whether any charges will be filed, though they have reminded drivers to exercise extreme caution when entering major highways — especially where visibility may be limited.
Friends and family of Laurie Jones are mourning the sudden loss of a woman remembered for her warmth, generosity, and deep love for those around her. A memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming days as loved ones gather to honor her life and grieve a tragedy that unfolded in an instant.
