By Jordan J. Phelan
EAGLE TIMES STAFF
CHESTER, Vt. — Two people, including a toddler, died in a head-on collision in Chester on Wednesday evening, according to Vermont authorities.
The Chester Police Department responded to Vermont Route 103 in the area of Peck Road for a report of a two-vehicle head-on crash. Shortly before the call, authorities in Springfield received a report of a blue minivan driving erratically and without headlights on.
An investigation revealed that the minivan — a 2006 Toyota Sienna — driven by 80-year-old Janice Bergeron, of Rockingham, was traveling south on Route 103 in Chester when the vehicle crossed over the center line and struck a 2014 Toyota Camry, driven by 24-year-old Heather Morse, of Springfield.
Morse’s partner, 24-year-old Michael McIver, of Springfield, and 2-year-old daughter, Amarya, were also in the car at the time of the accident.
Morse, who was transported to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, sustained significant but not life-threatening injuries, including a broken leg, according to a GoFundMe page established to assist the family. McIver, who was transported to Springfield Hospital, sustained minor injuries.
Bergeron was transported to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center by Chester Ambulance and later died of her injuries.
Morse’s daughter, Amarya, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Vermont State Police Crash Reconstruction Team responded further to assist.
The Chester Police Department was further assisted on scene by the Chester Fire Department, Chester Ambulance Service, Ludlow Ambulance, Springfield Ambulance, Golden Cross Ambulance, Benny’s Towing, and uniformed State Troopers of the Field Force Division.
Vermont State Police, Weathersfield Police, and Springfield Police also assisted with information and town coverage during the initial investigation time period.
The roadway in the area of the collision was closed for approximately four hours.
Those who wish to donate to the GoFundMe campaign may do so at bit.ly/3MsMZeO.
As your daily newspaper, we are committed to providing you with important local news coverage for Sullivan County and the surrounding areas.