A community is left grieving this week after authorities confirmed the death of 28‑year‑old Tyler Underwood of Hamlin. Underwood succumbed Thursday to critical injuries he suffered in a violent traffic crash on West Ridge Road that happened late last Saturday afternoon.
The collision happened around 1 p.m. near the busy intersection of West Ridge Road and Elmgrove Road, a stretch of road familiar to daily commuters. Greece police say a vehicle driven by 42‑year‑old Craig Cavallaro of Parma slammed into the back of another car stopped at a red light. Cavallaro died instantly at the crash site.
Underwood was riding as a passenger in the stopped vehicle. First responders rushed him and the driver of that car, 25‑year‑old Riesen Kimmerly of Hamlin, to Strong Memorial Hospital with serious injuries. Underwood’s condition worsened over the week, and officials reported his passing Thursday. Kimmerly remains hospitalized, still fighting to recover.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage and care for the injured. Firefighters, paramedics, and police officers were on site for hours, and traffic in the area was snarled as the crash drew a heavy emergency response.
Friends and neighbors in Hamlin and Greece are sharing memories of Underwood as a warm‑hearted friend who cared deeply about the people around him. Community members have left flowers and messages at makeshift memorials, honoring a life that ended far too soon. Many have been expressing support and reaching out to Underwood’s loved ones during this painful time.
Police say their investigation into what caused the crash is still underway. They are reviewing evidence, roadway conditions, vehicle damage, and any witness accounts to better understand how the crash unfolded. No further details have been released as authorities continue their work.
Officials have reminded drivers to stay alert on the roads, especially at intersections, and to always follow traffic signals. Crashes like this one serve as sober reminders of how quickly ordinary moments can turn tragic.
As families mourn and the community reflects, Greece police say they will provide updates if new information becomes available. For now, Underwood’s death has deepened sadness in a region still processing the loss of more than one life from a single afternoon crash.
