Worth, NY — On the first afternoon of the new year, a quiet winter ride turned tragic for a Liverpool family and the tight-knit snowmobiling community in northern Jefferson County.
Joseph R. DiDomenico, 55, a longtime resident of Liverpool, New York, died Thursday after a snowmobile collision on a trail near Waite Road in the Town of Worth. The crash happened at about 12:57 p.m. on January 1, when DiDomenico was struck by another snowmobiler who could not stop in time after coming over a hill on Junction 306, a well-used snowmobile trail.
Troopers from the New York State Police said DiDomenico had stopped and dismounted from his snowmobile on the trail when the second operator, a 16-year-old boy from Liverpool, approached too quickly and collided with him. The impact caused serious injuries, and emergency crews rushed DiDomenico to Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown. He was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Friends and family are heartbroken by the loss, with local responders expressing their deepest condolences to everyone close to Mr. DiDomenico during what is clearly a painful time.
State Police emphasized that early indications point to an accident, not negligence. The 16-year-old operator showed no signs of impairment, and there is no suggestion of reckless behavior. Investigators are continuing to review the scene and interview witnesses to understand the full sequence of events.
Responders from multiple agencies were on hand at the snowy trail that afternoon, including State Forest Rangers, the South Jefferson Rescue Squad, Town of Lorraine First Responders, the Barnes Corners Snow-Pals Snowmobile Club, and S and R Automotive, all assisting in securing the area and tending to the injured.
Friends describe DiDomenico as a passionate outdoorsman who loved riding the trails each winter and sharing those moments with fellow snowmobilers. What was meant to be a day of riding with friends and family ended in tragedy, reminding local riders of how quickly conditions and circumstances can change.
The State Police investigation is ongoing. Officials urge everyone who uses the trails to stay aware of their surroundings and to exercise caution, especially when visibility and snow conditions vary.
