The community of Glens Falls is reeling after the tragic death of 63-year-old Claudia Hargis-Grover, who lost her life in a three-vehicle crash on northbound Interstate 87 near Exit 23 in Bethlehem on Saturday afternoon. According to the New York State Police, the incident occurred around 4:44 p.m. when a 37-year-old Virginia driver, in a 2011 Chevrolet sedan, was traveling at a high rate of speed in the left lane. He attempted to merge to the right, sideswiping a Ram pickup, then veered back into the left lane and rear-ended Claudia’s 2025 Chevrolet sedan.
Claudia’s vehicle then struck a guardrail and came to rest on the left shoulder of the highway. Emergency crews responded swiftly, but sadly she was pronounced dead at the scene. Also injured were her passenger—who was transported to Albany Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries—and the driver and passenger of the pickup truck, who were taken to Samaritan Hospital – Albany Memorial Campus.
The Virginia driver has been charged with multiple vehicle and traffic law violations. Investigators say he showed no signs of impairment, and the breath test came back negative for alcohol. While it remains under investigation, the speed and lane change maneuver appear to have triggered the chain reaction.
For those close to Claudia, the shock is profound. She was remembered by friends and family as someone who always offered a comforting word, helped others without being asked, and made people feel seen and valued. Her passing leaves behind not just sorrow but a deep sense of loss in her community.
In Glens Falls and beyond, people are sharing stories of her warmth and light—how she’d stop to chat, quietly volunteer, bring a smile to someone’s day. Her life was defined not by grand gestures but by steady kindness and connection. Her absence is felt acutely, especially by those who knew her simply as a thoughtful, caring friend.
As the investigation moves forward, the community is gathering in grief and remembrance. Sympathy messages, memorials, and shared memories are streaming in, all honoring the legacy of a woman who made a difference in everyday ways. Though she is gone, many believe Claudia’s spirit lives on in the friendships she nurtured and the lives she touched.
Though she may no longer walk among us, her love, laughter and compassion will forever remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Rest in peace, Claudia Hargis-Grover — gone too soon, but never forgotten.
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