Fairfield, VT (July 15, 2025) – Multiple individuals sustained injuries Sunday afternoon in a violent head-on crash on Route 36 near Park St in Fairfield. Vermont State Police confirmed that five people, including two teenagers, were hospitalized as a result of the collision.
The crash occurred around 1 p.m. when an eastbound vehicle driven by 18-year-old Ian Robtoy of Fairfield reportedly crossed the center line and struck another vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. The impact caused severe damage to both vehicles, which were later determined to be total losses.
Melissa Hull, 49, and Brett Buzzatto, 52, were traveling in the second vehicle along with a juvenile passenger. According to troopers, both Hull and Buzzatto suffered serious injuries in the crash, while the juvenile in their car sustained minor wounds. Robtoy and his own juvenile passenger also sustained minor injuries.
First responders from Fairfield Fire and Rescue arrived quickly to stabilize the scene. Paramedics assessed the victims, delivering on-site care before transporting all five individuals to a nearby hospital for additional treatment.
Authorities have not yet indicated if weather or road conditions contributed to the crash. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have not ruled out further contributing factors.
Our thoughts are with all those hurt in this incident, and we hope for a smooth recovery for everyone involved.
Head-On Collisions in Vermont
Sunday’s crash in Fairfield highlights the particularly devastating nature of head-on collisions—one of the most dangerous types of motor vehicle accidents. Often caused by a vehicle drifting into oncoming traffic, these crashes typically result in high-impact injuries and extensive vehicle damage, as seen in this case.
Route 36, like many roads in rural Franklin County, can be narrow and winding, making even minor driver inattention potentially disastrous. When a vehicle crosses the center line, oncoming drivers often have just seconds to react, leaving little room to avoid a collision.
This incident also underscores the broad impact of crashes that involve families and children. Both vehicles in Sunday’s crash carried juvenile passengers, who—though spared from serious harm—were nonetheless exposed to a traumatic event. The emotional and physical recovery process for young people involved in such incidents can be lengthy and complicated.
While officials have not released specific causes, head-on crashes frequently stem from distracted driving, impairment, speeding, or drowsiness. Prevention efforts in Vermont continue to focus on educating drivers—especially younger ones like Robtoy—about the severe consequences of even momentary lapses in attention or control.
For victims of head-on crashes, recovery is often multi-layered. Beyond physical healing, many families face financial burdens from medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation. Emotional trauma may persist well beyond the crash itself, especially when children are involved.
Local communities play a crucial role in both supporting victims and promoting roadway safety. Increased enforcement of lane discipline, continued public awareness campaigns, and roadway improvements can all help reduce the frequency and severity of such crashes in rural towns like Fairfield.
When serious accidents happen, understanding your rights and seeking timely guidance can ease the path toward recovery and resolution.
If you or someone close to you has been injured in a crash, don’t wait to seek help.
When serious crashes turn lives upside down, Local Accident Reports is here to help. We provide updates, guidance, and support for injured individuals and their families. If you’ve been hurt in a Vermont car accident, let us help you access the resources you need to begin healing. Reach out today to take the first step toward justice and recovery.
