Derrick J. Smith Obituary News: Derrick J. Smith, who was 17 years old, along with 18-year-old Gavin Odell, both from

A tragic accident involving a single vehicle occurred in the early hours of Saturday, November 8, 2025, resulting in the deaths of two young men and leaving four others injured in Wellsville.

At approximately 2:25 a.m., emergency services from Wellsville EMS and the local Volunteer Fire Department were called to Tarantine Boulevard following reports of a severe accident. Upon reaching the scene, responders found a 2020 Buick Encore that had sustained significant damage, with several passengers trapped inside.

First responders promptly initiated rescue operations and began efforts to free the individuals. Four injured passengers were transported to nearby hospitals by the Wellsville Volunteer Ambulance and Medical Transport Service, Inc. Unfortunately, two individuals were declared dead at the scene.

As reported by the New York State Police, the vehicle was moving eastbound on Tarantine Boulevard when it veered off the road on a sharp curve, colliding with a utility pole on the driver's side. The vehicle, which had six teenagers onboard, experienced catastrophic damage.

Authorities have named the deceased as 17-year-old Derrick J. Smith and 18-year-old Gavin Odell, both residents of Canisteo, New York. Smith was located in the tailgate area, while Odell was seated behind the driver. Both were pronounced deceased at the location of the crash.

The 17-year-old driving the vehicle, along with a 14-year-old front passenger and two additional teenagers aged 15 and 16, suffered injuries that were not life-threatening and were subsequently taken to Jones Memorial Hospital for medical care.

Wellsville EMS & Rescue shared a message of sympathy in a statement, expressing, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and individuals affected by this heartbreaking event. We are thankful for the collaboration and dedication shown by all the agencies involved under such challenging conditions.”

Joining the response efforts were the Wellsville Fire Department, Medical Transport Service, Inc., the New York State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit, and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The Genesee Township Volunteer Fire/EMS Department (Station 37) provided support on standby during the situation.

Officials have confirmed that there was no indication of impairment, and the investigation is still in progress. Autopsies have been planned for both of the deceased individuals.

During this difficult period of profound loss, the Wellsville community stands in solidarity with the families and friends of Derrick Smith and Gavin Odell, whose lives were unfairly taken away far too early.