ROCKBRIDGE COUNTY, Va. — A deadly crash in Rockbridge County on Wednesday afternoon claimed the life of a Lexington woman and left two others injured, according to the Virginia State Police (VSP). The two-vehicle collision occurred on June 4 at the intersection of East Midland Trail and Memorial Lane, when a Jaguar XF failed to yield and was struck by an oncoming Honda Civic.
The driver of the Jaguar, 78-year-old Melodie Vohar of Lexington, was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators say she was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, which may have worsened the severity of her injuries. VSP is still working to determine what caused the Jaguar to enter the path of the approaching vehicle.
Inside the Honda Civic were a 19-year-old woman and a 24-year-old man, both of whom were transported to the hospital with injuries. Police noted that neither of the two Honda occupants was wearing a seatbelt when the crash occurred. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, but the investigation into the full extent of the injuries is still ongoing.
A 78-year-old male passenger in the Jaguar was uninjured in the crash. Officials confirmed that he was wearing a seatbelt, which may have helped protect him from harm. His identity has not been released at this time, and no other passengers were involved in the collision.
The Virginia State Police Crash Reconstruction Team is assisting with the investigation, which remains active. Authorities have not yet determined if speed, distraction, or other factors contributed to the accident. No charges have been filed, and both vehicles have been removed from the scene as the investigation continues.
The tragic crash highlights the ongoing importance of seatbelt use, especially for older adults and passengers. Law enforcement officials continue to urge drivers and passengers to wear their seatbelts at all times, regardless of how short the trip may be. Anyone with information about the crash or who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact Virginia State Police as they work to gather more details.
