Serious accident on Route 20 in Hamburg

HAMBURG, N.Y. (WIVB) - Authorities are investigating a serious two-car accident on Southwestern Boulevard near Lake View Road, near the Hamburg-Evans town line. Two Mercy Flight helicopters were called to the scene around 10 p.m.

The Hamburg Police report that a vehicle operated by Kevin Demert Jr., 21, of Farnham, crossed the center line of the roadway and struck a second vehicle operated by Ashley Derenda, 18, of Orchard Park. Both were transported to the ECMC by Mercy Flight.

A passenger in vehicle driven by Derenda, Caleb Bantin-Barney, 19, was also injured in the crash and was also brought to ECMC.

Ashley Derenda and Caleb Bantin-Barney are listed in critical condition and Kevin Demert is listed in fair condition.

The accident is still under investigation, however, it appears that speed and an unsafe lane change are contributing factors in the accident.

Charges are pending the outcome of the investigation, but at this point, impairment does not appear to be a contributing factor.

The roadway was closed for a time as crews cleaned up the scene and investigated the cause of the accident.