By Crash News Writer 
Lee, NY (November 5, 2025) – A 19-year-old driver was killed Sunday night in a solo crash in the Town of Lee, according to local law enforcement.
According to the New York State Police, the accident occurred around 8:40 p.m. on November 2 along Steadman Road, when deputies from the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office responded to an iPhone crash alert. Authorities say the vehicle was headed south when it veered off the road and collided with a tree.
The driver, identified as Owen C. Smith of Lee Center, was the only occupant in the vehicle. He was transported to Rome Health, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Investigators with the Forensic Identification Unit processed the crash scene. Preliminary findings indicate that speed was a primary factor in the accident. Steadman Road was temporarily closed but has since reopened.
The crash remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office.
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Tragic single-vehicle accidents like this can leave families devastated and searching for answers. When a young life is lost, it is vital that families understand their rights under car accident laws in New York, including the right to conduct an independent investigation, seek compensation for funeral costs, and explore potential liability for road conditions or mechanical failure.
If your loved one was involved in a car accident near Lee, you may not know where to begin. Speaking with an experienced attorney can help guide you through the legal process and ensure your family’s interests are protected. Whether the result of speeding, road hazards, or other factors, a car accident near me or a fatal car accident near Lee deserves careful review and accountability.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on early findings from law enforcement and may be updated as more information becomes available. If you have questions after a tragic crash, consult our frequently asked questions in New York for detailed legal guidance.
Authorities have confirmed the identity of the deceased as 19-year-old Owen C. Smith. No other vehicles or individuals were involved. Additional findings, including toxicology reports or contributing environmental conditions, may be released pending further investigation.
Emergency services including the Lee Center Volunteer Fire Department and Amcare Ambulance assisted at the scene. Support for grieving families is available through our accident resources in New York, which offers helpful tools for emotional, legal, and financial recovery.
This content is intended for informational purposes and should not be taken as legal advice. Information is accurate at the time of publication and may change as investigations develop. Learn more with our disclaimer.
If your family is facing the aftermath of a fatal crash, speak with a New York personal injury lawyer today to protect your rights.