LINCOLN, N.Y. — The Lincoln community is mourning the tragic loss of Clayton Wood, 33, of Chittenango, who was killed in a single-vehicle crash on the morning of Thursday, March 19, 2026. His sudden passing has left family, friends, and neighbors grieving a life cut short far too soon.

According to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred at approximately 7:40 a.m. near the intersection of Cottons Road and Bruce Road. Deputies responded to the scene and discovered a 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander that had crashed into a large tree along the northern shoulder of the roadway.

Investigators say Clayton Wood was traveling east on Cottons Road when he failed to navigate a curve. As a result, the vehicle left the roadway and struck the tree. Authorities confirmed that he was the only person inside the vehicle at the time of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials indicated that improper lane usage appears to have been a contributing factor in the crash. They also confirmed that Wood was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the collision, which may have increased the severity of his injuries. The circumstances surrounding the crash are still being carefully reviewed.

The crash led to the temporary closure of Cottons Road between Quarry Road and Harp Road for about three hours as emergency crews worked to investigate and clear the scene. Traffic in the area was impacted as authorities conducted their work and ensured the roadway was safe to reopen.

As the investigation continues, the Lincoln community is coming together to remember Clayton Wood and support his loved ones. Friends and family are expected to hold memorials in the coming days to honor his life. In this time of sorrow, many are also reminded of the importance of road safety, hoping to prevent similar tragedies in the future.