Driver Accused of Drug Impairment in Collision That Killed Passenger
(WNY News Now) – LOCKPORT, NY — A Newfane man has been charged following a fatal single-vehicle crash that occurred on July 16, 2025, on Lockport Junction Road, according to the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to the scene at approximately 7:05 p.m. after a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado traveling southbound veered off the roadway, struck a utility pole, and rolled over near 5151 Lockport Junction Road.
The vehicle was occupied by two individuals. The passenger, a 47-year-old male from the Town of Newfane, was trapped inside the wreckage and was pronounced dead at the scene despite the efforts of first responders. His identity is being withheld pending family notification.
The driver, identified as 52-year-old Thomas H. Summers of Newfane, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Lockport Memorial Hospital for treatment. Authorities say a Drug Recognition Expert evaluated Summers and determined he was under the influence of drugs at the time of the crash.
Summers was arrested and charged with Vehicular Manslaughter in the Second Degree (Class D Felony) and Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs (Misdemeanor). He was remanded to the Niagara County Jail pending arraignment in CAP Court.
The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Accident Investigation Unit continues to investigate the incident. As are all persons accused of a crime, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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