New Scotland Crash. A quiet morning drive turned deadly in Albany County when 59-year-old Frank Chappell of Greenville lost his life after his vehicle veered off the road and struck trees along Clarksville South Road.
It happened early Monday, just before sunrise. Deputies were called out around 6:26 a.m. after reports came in of a car that had left the roadway near Dunbar Hollow Road intersection.
When first responders arrived, they found a yellow 2015 Kia Soul deep in a wooded area, pressed against several trees after a violent impact.
Inside the vehicle were two people. Frank Chappell was driving. A 21-year-old woman was in the passenger seat. Both were quickly rushed to Albany Medical Center for emergency treatment.
Chappell’s injuries were severe. Despite efforts by medical staff, he was later pronounced dead at the hospital. His passenger survived with injuries that were described as not life-threatening.
Investigators say early signs point to something unexpected happening before the crash. There is a strong possibility Chappell may have experienced a medical emergency while behind the wheel.
That detail is now a major part of the ongoing investigation. Officials are working carefully to understand what caused the vehicle to suddenly leave the roadway and hit multiple trees.
An autopsy has been scheduled for Tuesday. Authorities say the full findings will help clarify whether health issues played a direct role in the crash that ended Chappell’s life and changed another in seconds.
