A fatal accident early Tuesday morning on Route 684 near Bedford tragically claimed the life of a Brewster man, resulting in severe delays for commuters. The victim, identified as 54-year-old Howard Zaibel, died instantly when his car collided with a parked tractor-trailer on the highway’s southbound lanes.
According to New York State Police, the crash occurred around 5:15 a.m. when Zaibel’s Kia unexpectedly veered off the road for reasons that are still unclear. His vehicle struck the rear of an International Harvester tractor-trailer, which was parked on the westbound shoulder just south of the Bedford rest stop. The driver of the tractor-trailer, who is from out of state, was uninjured in the incident.
The impact of the collision was severe, leading to Zaibel’s immediate death. At this time, investigators have not yet determined the cause of why Zaibel’s vehicle left the roadway, and the ongoing investigation aims to uncover the circumstances leading up to the tragic accident.
Following the collision, significant delays impacted the morning commute. Police and emergency crews worked tirelessly to assess the crash scene, which led to traffic congestion stretching for miles.
Many commuters from Putnam County heading to White Plains reported that their typical 45-minute commute took over two hours due to the incident and investigation efforts.
The accident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety on Route 684, where high-speed travel and frequent traffic often lead to dangerous situations. Authorities are encouraging drivers to remain vigilant, especially during early-morning hours when visibility and roadway conditions can pose additional challenges.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging any witnesses who may have observed the crash or have relevant information to contact the New York State Police. The cause of the accident remains under review, and further details will be released once they are available.
This tragic accident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for cautious driving on busy highways. The community mourns the loss of Zaibel, and officials remain committed to understanding the factors behind the accident to prevent future tragedies on the road.
