Bridgewater, NY (February 28, 2026) – State Route 20 was temporarily closed on Friday evening, February 27, following a head-on collision that left one person injured in Oneida County. Emergency units were dispatched to the scene around 6:13 p.m. after reports of a serious crash on the roadway.
An initial investigation determined that a 2015 Dodge Journey driven westbound by 50-year-old Joseph Mustachi of Bridgewater collided head-on with a 2017 Kia sedan traveling eastbound on State Route 20. The impact occurred in the eastbound lane, causing significant damage to both vehicles.
Mustachi was not injured in the crash. The Kia’s driver, 76-year-old Edward Thomas of New Hartford, was taken from the scene by ambulance before being transferred to a LifeNet helicopter. He was flown to SUNY Upstate University Hospital, where he was later listed in stable condition.
Route 20 was shut down for several hours between Bliven Road and Donley Road while emergency crews worked at the scene and investigators documented the collision. The roadway has since reopened to traffic.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation, and additional details may be released as they become available.
We wish Mr. Thomas strength as he continues to recover from his injuries.
Why Head-On Crashes Often Lead to Road Closures
Head-on collisions frequently result in extensive vehicle damage and serious injuries, which can require prolonged roadway closures. Emergency responders often need time to stabilize injured occupants, remove wrecked vehicles, and address debris spread across travel lanes.
These crashes typically prompt detailed scene documentation, including measurements, photographs, and vehicle positioning. When air transport is required, additional space and time are needed to safely coordinate landing zones and patient transfers.
On two-lane highways, closures are often unavoidable during serious crashes. Traffic is usually held until investigators finish their work and crews confirm the roadway is safe for drivers to resume travel.
