Town of Preble, N.Y. — A tragic motor vehicle crash on Friday night has claimed the life of Wallace Grevelding, following a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of State Route 281 and Preble Road. The incident occurred on October 24, 2025, at approximately 10:45 PM, prompting a swift response from multiple emergency agencies in Cortland County.
According to the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office, a Ford SUV driven by Grevelding was traveling through the intersection when it reportedly failed to stop at a posted stop sign. At that moment, a Ford pickup truck traveling along State Route 281 struck the SUV in the intersection. The force of the collision caused severe damage to both vehicles.
Emergency responders from the Preble Fire Department, Tully Fire Department, Homer Fire Department, TLC Emergency Medical Services, and the Cortland County Coroner’s Office arrived at the scene. Despite life-saving efforts, 61-year-old Wallace Grevelding succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Ford pickup truck sustained injuries and was transported to Upstate Medical Center for treatment. The extent of their injuries has not yet been released.
The accident brought significant traffic delays in the area as law enforcement and road crews worked to secure the scene and conduct an initial investigation. The New York State Police, the New York State Department of Transportation, and Ron’s Towing also assisted at the scene.
The Cortland County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the investigation is active and ongoing. At this time, authorities are working to determine the factors that contributed to the crash, including visibility, road conditions, and potential driver impairment or distraction. No further details have been publicly released regarding the pickup truck driver.
Anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the crash or who may have witnessed the collision is encouraged to come forward. The Sheriff’s Office is asking individuals with additional information to contact Sgt. Brendan L’Hommedieu at (607) 758-5540.
The community now mourns the loss of Wallace Grevelding, whose life ended tragically and unexpectedly on what began as a typical autumn evening. More information, including funeral arrangements or family statements, may be released in the coming days as loved ones navigate this difficult time.
This remains a developing story.
