Man Killed in Tragic Accident on Dutchess County Road

The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office has announced that a 25-year-old man has died following a single-vehicle accident in Poughquag, NY.

According to a Dutchess County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) press release, a 25-year-old Dutchess County resident died in a tragic accident over the Thanksgiving weekend.

Fatal Accident on Dutchess County Road

The DCSO said that the accident, which happened on Friday, November 28th, 2025, at approximately 6:40 p.m. on Clove Road in the Town of Union Vale, was under investigation after it claimed the life of 25-year-old Ryan E. Nichols.

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Following the investigation, authorities said that a 2016 Dodge Ram pickup truck driven by Nichols was traveling southbound on Clove Road near Mack Road when he lost control of the truck and struck a tree.

Nichols suffered serious injuries in the crash and was tragically pronounced deceased at the scene. The DCSO said that unsafe speed appears to have played a part in the accident. However, the accident remains under investigation at this time.

Ryan Nichols Remembered

Nichols, a lifelong Dutchess County resident, was born in Poughkeepsie, NY, and graduated from Arlington High School in 2018, where he played football and lacrosse, according to his obituary posted on the McHoul funeral home website.

Nichols went on to attend Buffalo State University and Western Connecticut State University. His obituary described Ryan as a person who "loved life, his family, and was a true friend to many. His life was rich with friendships. He was most happy in and around water, whether it be oceans, lakes, ponds, rivers, or waterfalls. He was an avid fisherman and boater, enjoying many trips on the Hudson River."

He also enjoyed helping others and giving back to the community, and was looking forward to joining the Beekman Fire Department.

Wake & Funeral Services

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, December 4th, 2025, from 4-8 p.m. at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. There will also be a celebration of Ryan's life on Friday, December 5th, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home, which will be followed by a reception at the Beekman Firehouse located at 316 Beekman-Poughquag Road.