New Hope Borough Council VP Killed In Buckingham Crash

NEW HOPE BOROUGH, PA — New Hope Borough Council Vice President Laurie McHugh, 58, died Monday in a crash on Route 413 in Buckingham Township.

The accident happened just after 1 p.m. on Durham Road (Route 413) near Upper Mountain Road when an Audi, driven by McHugh, and a large tractor-trailer collided, police said.

The Audi sustained heavy front-end damage while the truck sustained moderate damage. The tractor-trailer driver was taken to St. Mary Medical Center and was treated and released. McHugh was also taken to St. Mary Medical Center where she later succumbed to injuries.

Bucks County Coroner Meredith Buck confirmed McHugh's death on Tuesday morning an said an autopsy has been scheduled.

"Our deepest condolences to friends and family while they grieve this tragic loss," said Buck.

The cause of the crash is under investigation by the Buckingham Township Police Department and the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office.

McHugh, the founder and the CEO of the recently opened Union Chill Cannabis Company in Lambertville, New Jersey, has served on the borough council since January 2016 after winning election in November 2015. She was currently serving as vice president.

McHugh was also the co-founder of the Bucks County Dragon Boat Association – a club that has not only touched hundreds of lives but has produced crews that have earned several national championships (most recently in July 2023 in Sarasota) and widespread recognition and
support.

In a Facebook posting, they remembered Laurie.

"We mourn the loss of a visionary, a leader, and a dear friend who played an instrumental role in shaping our dragon boat club into what it is today and we are truly devastated. Laurie was not only an exceptional person but also a true inspiration to all of us within Bucks. Her love for our club was infectious, her dedication unwavering and her spirit indomitable. Laurie will forever be remembered for her invaluable contributions both on and off the water.

"We are eternally grateful for the friendships, memories and countless victories that Laurie brought into our lives," the club wrote. "She was always there to lend a helping hand, motivate us during challenging times, and to celebrate our triumphs.

"Laurie’s legacy will continue to live on through the spirit of camaraderie and determination that she instilled within our dragon boat family. Her spirit will forever be etched in Bucks Dragon Boat history. Rest in peace, our dear friend. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten."

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