Woman Says She’s ‘Lucky to Be Alive’ After Crashing into 2,300-Lb. Water Buffalo

A remarkable yet tragic incident unfolded on the evening of October 16, 2023, when a woman in Stockholm, New York, collided with a water buffalo while driving home from church. Kristen Rozelle, 50, described the harrowing experience, stating, “We’re lucky to be alive.” Accompanying her in the vehicle was 27-year-old Lindsey Baker, both of whom sustained injuries from the accident.

Rozelle recalled the moments leading up to the crash, explaining that she was travelling at approximately 52 miles per hour when the 2,300-pound buffalo unexpectedly crossed her path on U.S. Route 11. “I didn’t see anything at all. And then boom,” she recounted, reflecting on the shock of suddenly encountering the massive animal.

The collision resulted in significant damage to Rozelle’s Jeep, but she expressed gratitude that she was driving a Jeep Limited, as she believes its sturdiness spared them from more severe harm. “If I did not have a Jeep Limited, I’d be dead,” she told local CBS affiliate WWNY-TV. The aftermath of the crash was disorienting, as Rozelle briefly lost consciousness and awoke to smoke filling the vehicle from the deployed airbags, which compounded the difficulty of escaping.

Following the collision, Baker, who had been in the passenger seat, witnessed the airbags deploy and heard Rozelle’s urgent calls to get out of the vehicle. The rescue was complicated by the airbags preventing a quick exit. Both women were subsequently taken to Canton-Potsdam Hospital for treatment of their injuries. Rozelle had cuts on her hand and leg, while Baker suffered bruising to her chest and legs.

Authorities reported that the water buffalo, which had been spotted running across a field before the incident, did not survive the collision. Sean Myers, the animal’s owner, was identified by New York State Troopers but chose to remain silent on the matter, citing pending litigation.

Road safety advocacy groups have repeatedly highlighted the dangers posed by large animals on highways, particularly in rural areas where wildlife encounters can lead to devastating accidents. The tragic event has reignited discussions about the need for increased awareness and caution among drivers when traversing regions in proximity to wildlife habitats.

New York State Police have not yet provided further comment on the incident, and the situation remains a point of interest for local media. The swift response to the accident by first responders ensured that Rozelle and Baker received prompt medical attention, which will aid in their recovery process.

As both women begin to heal from their physical injuries, they are undoubtedly grappling with the emotional aftermath of the event. Rozelle’s comments underline how quickly life can change and how fortunate they feel to have escaped with their lives. “We’re just grateful to be alive,” she said, emphasising the seriousness of the situation.

With multiple questions still surrounding the accident and its implications, the full circumstances remain an avenue for further investigation. The community in Stockholm is left to ponder the impact of such events and the importance of safety for both motorists and wildlife.