Christopher Roche, 56, was killed in a crash on Route 6 near Sunset Boulevard and Tamarin Drive in Carmel on Friday, Oct. 2, according to a fundraiser launched for his family. His wife, Siobhan Roche, 44, was also seriously injured and remained hospitalized in critical condition, the fundraiser said.
The Carmel Fire Department said the crash was first reported by nearby homeowners who heard the collision.
Responding police officers found that a black 2024 Dodge Ram pickup truck had gone off the road at 1332 Route 6 and down a steep embankment, leaving the two people inside trapped and seriously injured. Because of the severity of the crash, a LifeNet medical helicopter was requested, while the Mahopac Fire Department was called to establish a landing zone.
Carmel firefighters spent around 45 minutes stabilizing the vehicle and freeing Christopher and Siobhan, with EMS crews caring for them throughout the rescue.
Christopher was pronounced dead at the scene, while Siobhan was airlifted to Westchester Medical Center in serious condition, according to Carmel Police.
Route 6 was closed between Washington Road and Drewville Road for a few hours into early Saturday morning, police added.
In the days since the crash, support has poured in for the Roche family. A GoFundMe started by family friend Alan O'Cleirigh on Tuesday, Oct. 6, had raised $71,363 toward a $90,000 goal as of Wednesday, Oct. 7.
The fundraiser said Christopher and Siobhan have seven children — Fionn, Laela, Sophia, Aoibhe, Alana, Jake, and Eoin — who are now grieving their father while hoping for their mother's recovery.
"Christopher was truly one of a kind. He was the absolute best dad, husband, son, brother, and friend anyone could ask for," O'Cleirigh wrote on the page.
Donations will help cover Roche's funeral and memorial expenses, Siobhan's medical care and recovery, and immediate and longer-term living expenses for their children, according to the fundraiser.
Those interested in donating can click here to do so.
Visitation for Roche is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 9, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Joseph J. Smith Funeral Home in Mahopac, according to his obituary page. A funeral Mass will follow at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at St. John the Evangelist Church in Mahopac.
The crash that killed Roche is still under investigation. Anyone who saw the crash or has footage from the area between 8:50 p.m. and 9:05 p.m. on Friday should call Carmel Police at 845-628-1300.
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