ONEIDA COUNTY, N.Y. — A 26-year-old Utica man has died from injuries sustained in a tragic head-on collision earlier this month during hazardous winter conditions. The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Koudi Bashir succumbed to his injuries after the March 8 crash on snow-covered Route 8 in the Town of Paris.
The accident occurred around 5:30 p.m. when a 29-year-old driver lost control of a 2019 Ford Escape on the slippery roadway. The vehicle crossed the centerline, colliding with a 2022 Toyota Highlander. Emergency crews needed extrication tools to free Bashir and another seriously injured passenger from the Escape.
Bashir was transported to SUNY Upstate Hospital where he later died. The other Escape passenger remains hospitalized with serious injuries. Three occupants of the Highlander sustained non-life threatening injuries and were treated at Wynn Hospital.
Sheriff’s investigators confirmed winter weather significantly contributed to the crash, with snow accumulation and strong winds creating dangerous driving conditions at the time. The crash reconstruction team continues examining whether speed or other factors played a role.
The tragedy has left the Utica community mourning the loss of the young victim. Friends described Bashir as a kind-hearted individual who always put family first. A memorial gathering is being planned to honor his memory.
Authorities remind drivers to exercise extreme caution during winter weather, including reducing speed and increasing following distance. The investigation remains open as officials complete their final report.
