Ramsey Driver Caused Crash That Kills Woman, 73: Police

RAMSEY, NJ — A borough man who failed to stop at a stop sign and crossed a double center line caused a crash Friday that killed a New York woman, police said.

The accident happened when Edward Schaffner, 77, exited Route 17 West at exit 100A, New York State Police Maj. Pierce V. Gallagher said in a news release.

Schaffner did not stop at a stop sign at the end of the exit ramp and made a right turn onto Route 55, crossing the center double lane and into the opposite lane of traffic, Gallagher said.

Schaffner struck the 2006 Ford Explorer Ann M. Powers was driving head on, Gallagher said.

Powers, 73, was pronounced dead at the scene by Sullivan County Coroner Elton Harris, Gallagher said.

Schaffer suffered internal injuries and was taken to Catskill Regional Medical Center by ambulance, Gallagher said. He was later taken to Westchester Medical Center for further treatment, police said.

Authorities are investigating the crash.

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Patch file photo by Daniel Hubbard