Press Release: New York State Police are investigating a two car motor vehicle crash that occurred on October 2, 2018 at approximately 6:30 p.m. on State Route 55 in the town of Bethel. Trooper Brandon Smith, of SP Roscoe, was traveling east on State Route 55 operating a 2013 Ford Explorer, when a 1994 Jeep Cherokee, being operated by Jesse VanEps, age 18, of Eldred, NY was traveling west on State Route 55.

Trooper Smith observes the jeep drift off the north shoulder and ultimately reenters the east bound lane that Trooper Smith is traveling in. Trooper Smith took evasive action but is unable to avoid the Jeep Cherokee and is struck head on injuring both drivers. Trooper Smith was transported to Catskill Regional Medical Center where he was treated for non life threatening injuries. VanEps was also transported to Catskil Regional Medical Center and was treated for non life threatening injuries

VanEps was charged with Driving While Ability Impaired by drugs (DWAI Drugs) and released on an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Bethel Court on October 9, 2018 at 5 p.m.