A tragic incident in Rensselaer County claimed the life of a 19-year-old Wynantskill man on Tuesday afternoon after a vehicle fire broke out in a residential driveway on Judd Lane.
According to authorities, the fire was reported shortly before 2:00 p.m., when a passerby noticed a car engulfed in flames. The individual called 911 and attempted to put out the blaze using a garden hose, but soon realized someone was trapped beneath the vehicle.
Emergency crews from the Wynantskill Fire Department, Defreestville Fire Department, and North Greenbush Ambulance quickly responded to the scene. Despite their efforts to extinguish the fire and rescue the victim, officials confirmed that the man had already passed away before their arrival.
At this time, investigators have not released the victim’s name pending notification of next of kin. Police emphasized that while the cause of the fire remains under investigation, there are no indications of foul play.
“This is a terribly tragic situation, and our hearts go out to his family and friends,” said Chief David M. Keevern of the Wynantskill Police Department. “The response from all emergency services was exceptional, as always, but sadly, it was not enough to save him.”
Chief Keevern expressed gratitude to partner agencies assisting in the investigation, including the Rensselaer County Bureau of Public Safety and the Rensselaer County Cause and Origin Investigation Team, who are working to determine how the fire began and how the victim became trapped.
Rensselaer County Bureau of Public Safety Director Jay Wilson also extended condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends as they cope with this tragic incident.”
Chief Keevern concluded, “We are deeply grateful to the first responders and community members who acted so quickly. Tragedies like this remind us of the importance of compassion, cooperation, and caring for one another in difficult times.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details will be released as they become available.