Claire Boyer, 84, Fatally Injured in Hoosick, NY, Intersection Crash; Elizabeth Cain, 82, and Susan Alexis Joe, 25, Sustain Injuries in Serious Two-Vehicle Collision
Hoosick, New York — A tragic and fatal two-vehicle collision on the morning of June 5, 2025, at the busy crossroads of State Route 7 and State Route 22 in Hoosick, New York, has taken the life of 84-year-old Claire Boyer of Williamstown, Massachusetts. The crash also left two other women seriously injured: 82-year-old Elizabeth Cain from North Adams, Massachusetts, and 25-year-old Susan Alexis Joe from Petersburgh, New York. The devastating accident has deeply impacted the surrounding communities of Rensselaer County and neighboring western Massachusetts, as emergency crews rushed to the scene in an attempt to save lives.
The Accident and Emergency Response
According to the New York State Police, the collision occurred around 10:30 a.m. on a clear Thursday morning. Elizabeth Cain was driving her 2010 Honda northbound on State Route 22 and attempted to turn left onto westbound State Route 7. During her left turn, Cain’s vehicle was struck by a blue 2010 Mazda sedan traveling eastbound on Route 7, driven by Susan Alexis Joe.
The force of the impact severely damaged both vehicles. Emergency responders, including troopers and paramedics, arrived quickly and found Claire Boyer, a front-seat passenger in Cain’s vehicle, unresponsive. Despite immediate life-saving interventions, Boyer was pronounced deceased at the scene. Cain suffered a leg injury and was carefully extricated from her vehicle before being transported to Albany Medical Center for treatment. Joe was found outside her vehicle with injuries to her leg and hip and was also taken to the same hospital for medical care.
Profiles of the Victims
Claire Boyer was a beloved resident of Williamstown, Massachusetts, well known in her community for her active lifestyle and involvement in local organizations. At 84, she was admired for her vitality and warmth, often seen participating in neighborhood events and volunteering at community centers. Her sudden death has sent shockwaves through the towns along the New York-Massachusetts border, where many knew and respected her.
Elizabeth Cain, 82, also from nearby North Adams, has been hospitalized with injuries but is reported to be in stable condition. Cain, like Boyer, was a familiar face in the local area, often engaged in social activities and community support groups.
Susan Alexis Joe, a younger member of the community at 25, lives in Petersburgh, New York. The nature of her injuries is serious, but medical staff have confirmed she is expected to recover after receiving treatment for her leg and hip wounds.
Impact on the Communities
This tragic event has rippled through both New York and Massachusetts communities, where families, friends, and neighbors are grappling with shock and grief. Local leaders have expressed their condolences and emphasized the importance of road safety and awareness.
Williamstown Mayor Janet Reynolds stated, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Claire Boyer during this incredibly difficult time. She was a valued member of our community, and her loss is deeply felt.”
Similarly, officials in North Adams and Petersburgh are rallying to support the families of the injured and to provide resources for trauma counseling to those affected by the accident.
Investigation Underway
The New York State Police continue to investigate the precise cause of the collision. Officials are reviewing traffic camera footage, witness accounts, and road conditions to better understand the circumstances that led to this deadly crash.
Preliminary reports suggest that the intersection’s complex traffic flow and potential misjudgment during the left turn may have contributed to the collision. Investigators are also assessing whether any mechanical failures or external factors played a role.
Authorities have urged anyone who witnessed the accident or has information to come forward and assist with the ongoing inquiry.
Road Safety and Future Precautions
The intersection of State Routes 7 and 22 is a critical junction that connects several communities and sees a high volume of daily traffic. The accident has prompted renewed discussion among local transportation officials and community members about potential safety improvements.
Some residents have called for enhanced signage, updated traffic signals, or the addition of turning lanes to reduce the risk of future accidents. Traffic safety advocates are emphasizing the need for drivers to exercise caution, especially at busy intersections with mixed traffic patterns.
Final Thoughts and Memorial Plans
As the investigation continues, the community is beginning to prepare for the memorial of Claire Boyer. Friends and family remember her as a vibrant, caring woman who was devoted to her community and loved ones.
Plans for a memorial service are underway, with details to be announced soon. Local organizations and residents have started collecting donations to support the family and to fund initiatives aimed at preventing similar tragedies on the roads.
This heartbreaking event underscores the importance of vigilance and safety behind the wheel, as well as the profound impact such losses have on communities. Claire Boyer’s passing leaves a lasting void, while Elizabeth Cain and Susan Alexis Joe face challenging recoveries ahead.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this tragedy or requires assistance with road safety education, local support groups and counseling services are available throughout Rensselaer County and neighboring regions.
