DRYDEN / TOMPKINS COUNTY, NY — Deputies with the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash that claimed the life of 24-year-old Chase Nash of Dryden, New York, on Thursday evening, November 5, 2026.
The tragic accident occurred along Hurd Road in the Town of Dryden, leaving family, friends, and the local Tompkins County community grieving a sudden loss.
According to the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred at approximately 5:50 p.m. on Hurd Road in the town of Dryden.
Preliminary findings indicate that Nash was traveling along Hurd Road when his pickup truck drifted off the roadway and struck a tree with significant force. The collision left him trapped inside the damaged vehicle.
Following the impact, the pickup truck caught fire, prompting an emergency response from local firefighters. Dryden firefighters arrived and worked to extinguish the flames.
After the fire was brought under control, emergency personnel discovered Nash deceased inside the truck. Despite the response, the 24-year-old driver did not survive the crash.
The Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office said preliminary investigations indicate that no other vehicles were involved. Authorities are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine what caused the pickup truck to leave the roadway.
Nash’s death at just 24 years old is a heartbreaking loss. His family, friends, and loved ones are left to mourn a life cut short far too soon.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to everyone affected by this tragedy.
May Chase Nash rest in peace.
