Fatal UTV Crash in Morristown Claims 93-Year-Old Man
State Police say the utility vehicle overturned on a private driveway after striking a large rock.
A fatal Morristown UTV crash claimed the life of a 93-year-old Ogdensburg man Tuesday evening after his vehicle left a private driveway, struck a large rock and overturned down an embankment, according to New York State Police.
The incident happened at approximately 6:26 p.m. on July 21 along Point Comfort Road in the town of Morristown. Troopers identified the driver as Donald A. Ceresoil of Ogdensburg.
What State Police Say Happened
According to the State Police investigation, Ceresoil was operating a camouflage 2023 John Deere XUV on a curved private driveway.
Police said Ceresoil failed to negotiate the curve. The utility terrain vehicle then left the driveway and struck a large rock before overturning down an embankment.
Ceresoil was ejected from the vehicle during the crash, according to the police release.
The State Police account did not say how far the vehicle traveled down the embankment. It also did not state whether Ceresoil was wearing a seat belt or other protective equipment at the time of the crash.
Those details cannot be independently verified from the information released Wednesday.
Emergency Crews Attempted Lifesaving Measures
Members of local fire and rescue agencies responded to the Point Comfort Road property and attempted lifesaving measures.
The St. Lawrence County coroner later arrived at the scene and pronounced Ceresoil dead. The coroner also authorized the removal of his body, State Police said.
Police did not identify the responding fire or rescue departments in their initial statement.
No passengers or other vehicles were mentioned in the release. State Police also did not report any additional injuries.
What Is a UTV?
A utility terrain vehicle, commonly called a UTV or side-by-side, is an off-road vehicle often used for farming, landscaping, property maintenance and recreation.
UTVs generally have steering wheels, foot pedals, side-by-side seating and cargo areas. Many models are equipped with seat belts and rollover-protection structures.
Unlike a standard passenger vehicle, a UTV may operate on uneven ground, trails, farms and private driveways. Curves, slopes, rocks and soft shoulders can affect how the vehicle handles.
The vehicle involved in the Morristown crash was described by police as a John Deere XUV. State Police did not release information about possible mechanical issues or say whether speed contributed to the crash.
UTV Safety Remains Important on Private Property
The crash occurred on private property, but safety precautions remain important wherever an off-road vehicle is operated.
The ATV Safety Institute recommends that riders:
- Wear a properly fitted helmet and other protective gear.
- Operate at a safe speed for the terrain.
- Avoid riding while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Read and follow the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions.
- Complete appropriate safety training.
- Use designated seating and never carry more passengers than the vehicle allows.
UTV operators should also use installed seat belts and inspect the area for curves, embankments, rocks and other hazards before driving.
These general recommendations do not establish what caused the Morristown crash. The only circumstances confirmed by State Police are that the UTV left the curved driveway, struck a rock, overturned and ejected the driver.
Questions Remain After the Fatal Crash
The initial police report leaves several questions unanswered, including:
- Whether Ceresoil was using the vehicle’s restraint system.
- Whether investigators found any mechanical problems.
- Whether the driveway’s condition contributed to the crash.
- Whether an autopsy or additional medical examination was ordered.
- Whether the State Police investigation remains active.
No criminal allegations or traffic charges were announced.
State Police released the information through Troop B, which serves the North Country. Trooper Brandi M. Ashley was listed as the public information officer for the case.
A North Country Community Mourns
The fatal Morristown UTV crash is a painful reminder that serious accidents can happen during ordinary trips on farms, rural properties and private roads.
Ceresoil’s death also leaves a family and community grieving an unexpected loss. Authorities had not announced information about funeral arrangements or memorial services as of the initial release.
Anyone operating a UTV should take time to fasten the vehicle’s restraint system, slow down before curves and examine unfamiliar terrain. Families should also consider whether a person’s eyesight, reaction time, balance and physical condition allow that person to safely operate the vehicle.
The investigation’s findings may provide additional answers. Until then, the public should avoid speculation and rely on verified information released by law enforcement.
Sources
- New York State Police, “State Police Investigate a Fatal UTV Incident in Morristown,” July 22, 2026.
- ATV Safety Institute, safety and practice guidance.
