PAGE COUNTY, Va. — Virginia State Police are investigating a tragic two-vehicle crash that claimed the life of a Luray woman and left another driver seriously injured early Tuesday morning. The collision happened shortly after midnight, at about 12:41 a.m. on October 15, along U.S. Route 340 near Newport Road, according to an official statement from the Virginia State Police (VSP).
Authorities said a 2013 Volkswagen Passat traveling south on Route 340 crossed the centerline and struck a 2012 Hyundai Elantra heading northbound. The impact was severe, causing major damage to both vehicles and prompting an immediate response from local law enforcement, fire crews, and emergency medical teams. The driver of the Elantra, identified as 28-year-old Cassie N. Hutton of Luray, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials confirmed that Hutton was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
The driver of the Volkswagen, 19-year-old Clarissa C. Sosa of Stanley, sustained serious injuries but is expected to recover. Authorities said Sosa was properly restrained, which likely prevented her injuries from being life-threatening. She was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The VSP confirmed that charges are pending as investigators continue to examine the cause of the crash.
Accident reconstruction specialists with the Virginia State Police are leading the investigation. They are analyzing skid marks, roadway evidence, and vehicle damage to determine what led the Volkswagen to veer into oncoming traffic. Investigators are also considering potential contributing factors such as distraction, fatigue, or road conditions. Findings from the investigation will be forwarded to the Page County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office for review once complete.
The fatal crash has deeply affected residents of Page County, where both women were known in their local communities. Route 340 has been the site of several serious collisions in recent years, raising safety concerns among drivers who say the winding, dimly lit roadway poses hazards—especially during late-night travel. Officials continue to urge motorists to stay alert, obey posted speed limits, and always wear seatbelts.
Emergency crews from Page County Fire and Rescue and the Luray Volunteer Fire Department assisted in clearing the crash scene and ensuring the roadway’s safe reopening several hours later. Virginia State Police extended condolences to Hutton’s family and friends, emphasizing their commitment to uncovering the full circumstances of the crash. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage is asked to contact VSP investigators in Page County.