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The candlelight vigil began around 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving eve.
Driver Erik Johnson, 17, and passenger Liam O’Farrell, 18, were traveling eastbound in a 2004 Nissan 350Z on Feller Newmark Road, approximately a quarter mile east of Route 9, when Johnson lost control while passing another vehicle, according to the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office.
O'Farrell is a three-sport varsity standout, according to a report by LaxLessons.com you can read by clicking here.
The Nissan then left the roadway and struck a tree on the southern shoulder, according to the sheriff's office reports.
Both Johnson and O'Farrell suffered life-threatening injuries and were transported to hospitals for treatment. Johnson was airlifted to Albany Medical Center and O’Farrell was driven by ambulance to Mid-Hudson Regional.
Both were wearing seatbelts, and at this time the primary factor appears to be unsafe speed, the sheriff's office said.
The Sheriff’s Office Crash Investigation Unit responded to the scene and is continuing to investigate the cause or causes of the crash.
The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the Red Hook Fire Department and Northern Dutchess Paramedics.
Check back to Daily Voice for updates.
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