Morning traffic moved like any other Thursday in Gates, New York, until a violent crash shattered a young family’s world. Six-month-old Levi Carpenter lost his life after the SUV carrying him and his parents was struck from behind at a busy intersection, leaving the infant’s parents fighting for recovery in the hospital.
Police say the crash happened around 10:15 a.m. on March 5 at the intersection of Buffalo Road and Howard Road, one of the town’s busiest crossings just outside Rochester. A black SUV slammed into the back of a white SUV that had stopped at a traffic light. The force of the impact was so strong that all three people inside the white SUV became trapped inside the wreckage.
Firefighters and emergency crews rushed to the scene and worked to free the occupants. Among them was baby Levi, secured in a child safety seat. First responders carefully removed the infant and rushed him to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.
Despite their efforts, Levi died at the hospital from his injuries. The loss stunned first responders and left the family facing unimaginable grief.
Levi’s parents, Ashley and Matthew Carpenter, were also taken to the hospital with severe injuries. Authorities say one of them remains in critical condition while the other is listed in serious condition. Both face a long road to recovery as they try to process the loss of their only child.
Friends and community members quickly rallied around the couple. A GoFundMe campaign created to support the Carpenter family describes a young couple now dealing with hospital stays, mounting medical bills, rehabilitation and funeral costs for their son. The fundraiser has drawn a wave of sympathy from neighbors, co-workers and strangers.
By Monday morning, the campaign had raised nearly $130,000 in donations. Messages pouring in alongside the donations speak of heartbreak, prayers and hope that the family can someday rebuild after such a devastating loss.
Gates Police Chief Robert Long described the crash as devastating for everyone involved. The department has since asked the state Department of Transportation to review safety at the busy intersection where the collision occurred, hoping steps can be taken to prevent another tragedy like the one that claimed Levi’s short life.
