By Crash News Writer 
Cayuta, NY (July 8, 2026) – A two vehicle crash at the intersection of State Route 224 and State Route 13 early Sunday morning claimed the life of a New Jersey man and left several others injured in Schuyler County.
According to the New York State Police, troopers from SP Dundee and SP Montour Falls responded to the intersection at approximately 4:58 a.m. on July 5 following reports of a serious crash. The preliminary investigation determined that a 2023 Tesla, driven by 25-year-old Madhu Mala of New Jersey, was traveling northbound on State Route 224 when it allegedly failed to stop for a red traffic signal and entered the intersection. The Tesla was then struck by an eastbound 2023 Dodge Charger operated by 52-year-old Bryan J. Woodworth of Elmira, who was traveling on State Route 13 with a green signal.
The Tesla was carrying four occupants. Rear seat passenger Prasanna Atlur, 31, of New Jersey, was transported to Robert Packer Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. Madhu Mala suffered serious injuries that were not considered life threatening and was transferred to Robert Packer Hospital for further treatment. Passengers Akhil Valluri, 31, and Jathin Kolla, 24, both of New Jersey, were also taken to Robert Packer Hospital. One sustained serious life threatening injuries while the other was evaluated and reported to have no apparent injuries. Woodworth was transported to Arnot Ogden Medical Center with injuries that were not considered life threatening. The New York State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit, Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and Forensic Identification Unit continue to investigate the crash.
Protect Your Rights After a Fatal Accident Today
A fatal motor vehicle collision can leave surviving family members facing emotional trauma, unexpected financial burdens, and many unanswered questions. While no legal action can undo such a tragic loss, understanding your legal rights may help families recover compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and other damages permitted under the law. Learning about car accident laws in New York can provide valuable guidance during this difficult time.
Prompt legal action can also help preserve important evidence, including crash scene documentation, witness statements, vehicle inspections, and electronic data that may be critical during an investigation. Families searching for answers after a car accident near me should consider speaking with an attorney before making important insurance decisions or accepting settlement offers.
Those looking for information about a car accident near Cayuta may benefit from obtaining a car accident report, which can provide important details regarding the investigation. Whether researching a car accident near me or another car accident near Cayuta, keeping organized records of medical treatment, expenses, and insurance communications can be valuable. Reviewing a car accident report together with qualified legal guidance may help families better understand the options available following a serious collision.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information released by investigating authorities and remains subject to updates as additional evidence becomes available. The investigation is ongoing, and additional findings may be released as officials continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the crash. Readers seeking more information are encouraged to review frequently asked questions in New York.
Additional assistance for victims and their families can be found by reviewing accident resources in New York. The information presented in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. Details are based on public reports available at the time of publication and may change as the investigation progresses. Learn more by reviewing our disclaimer.
If your family has been impacted by a fatal crash, contact an experienced New York personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and the options available for pursuing justice.