By Crash News Writer 
Olive, NY (August 27, 2026) – Peter Bonenfant, 19, of Smithtown, and Philip Jacobus, 72, died following a head-on crash involving a Chevrolet and Mercedes-Benz on State Route 28 in Ulster County on Sunday morning, August 23. State Police responded shortly after 6:45 a.m.
According to the New York State Police , an initial investigation determined that the Chevrolet was traveling westbound when it crossed into the eastbound lane for reasons that remained unknown and collided head-on with the Mercedes-Benz.
Bonenfant, who was driving the Chevrolet, had to be extricated from the vehicle. Emergency personnel provided lifesaving measures at the scene before transporting him to Health Alliance Hospital in Kingston, where he later died.
Jacobus, the driver of the Mercedes-Benz, also required extrication and received lifesaving measures before being taken to Health Alliance Hospital. He was later transferred to Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The investigation into the fatal accident remains ongoing.
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Preserving evidence promptly can be particularly important after a fatal crash. Vehicle damage photographs, witness statements, roadway evidence, medical documentation, insurance communications, and available surveillance footage may help establish the circumstances surrounding an accident. Families should also consider obtaining the official car accident report when authorities make it available.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information released by authorities. Details may change as the investigation into the State Route 28 crash continues. Readers seeking general information can review frequently asked questions in New York .
- Peter Bonenfant, 19, was identified as the driver of the Chevrolet.
- Philip Jacobus, 72, was identified as the driver of the Mercedes-Benz.
- Both drivers required extrication and received lifesaving measures following the collision.
- Authorities reported that the Chevrolet crossed into the eastbound lane for reasons that remained unknown.
- The investigation into the cause and circumstances of the crash remains ongoing.
Families seeking additional information following a fatal roadway accident can also review accident resources in New York .
The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports at the time of publication, and details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more with our disclaimer.
Families affected by a fatal head-on accident should consider calling a New York personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss their rights, applicable deadlines, and potential legal options.