A devastating single-vehicle crash early Saturday morning, November 8, 2025, has left two young men dead and four others injured in the Town of Wellsville.
At approximately 2:25 a.m., Wellsville EMS & Rescue and the Wellsville Volunteer Fire Department were dispatched to Tarantine Boulevard for reports of a serious crash. Upon arrival, emergency crews discovered a heavily damaged 2020 Buick Encore with multiple occupants trapped inside.
First responders immediately began life-saving measures and extrication efforts. Four victims were transported by Wellsville Volunteer Ambulance and Medical Transport Service, Inc. to nearby hospitals with varying injuries. Tragically, two individuals were pronounced deceased at the scene.
According to the New York State Police, the vehicle was traveling eastbound on Tarantine Boulevard when it exited the roadway on a sharp curve, striking a utility pole on the driver’s side. The vehicle, carrying six teenage occupants, suffered catastrophic damage.
Authorities identified the deceased as 17-year-old Derrick J. Smith and 18-year-old Gavin Odell, both of Canisteo, New York. Smith had been riding in the tailgate area, while Odell was seated behind the driver. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
The 17-year-old driver, along with a 14-year-old front-seat passenger and two other teens, ages 15 and 16, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to Jones Memorial Hospital for treatment.
Wellsville EMS & Rescue expressed their condolences in a statement, saying, “Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic incident. We are grateful for the teamwork and professionalism displayed by all responding agencies under extremely difficult circumstances.”
Assisting agencies included the Wellsville Fire Department, Medical Transport Service, Inc., the New York State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit, and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Genesee Township Volunteer Fire/EMS Department (Station 37) provided standby support during the incident.
Authorities have confirmed there were no signs of impairment, and the investigation remains ongoing. Autopsies have been scheduled for both victims.
In this time of unimaginable loss, the Wellsville community mourns alongside the families and friends of Derrick Smith and Gavin Odell, whose lives were tragically cut short far too soon.