Norwood man killed in crash near Potsdam; 4 women hurt

POTSDAM — A Norwood man died in a head-on car crash on Route 56 just outside the village early Saturday.

John C. Purvis, 56, was driving a Toyota Prius about 12:20 a.m. when he crossed into oncoming traffic and hit a Plymouth Neon driven by Lori A. Grant, 27, Norwood, state police said.

Mrs. Grant and three passengers, Dayle L. Yandoh, 23, Norfolk, and Jessica L. Murray, 21, and Rachel A. LaPoint, 23, both of Norwood, initially were taken to Canton-Potsdam Hospital for treatment.

Mrs. Grant was listed in critical condition at Fletcher Allen Health Care, Burlington, Vt., hospital officials said Saturday evening. Ms. Yandoh was being transferred to Fletcher Allen as of Saturday evening, while Ms. Murray was listed in fair condition at Upstate Medical University, Syracuse. The status of Ms. LaPoint wasn't available Saturday evening.

Potsdam firefighters cut off the roof of the Neon to free the passengers.

St. Lawrence County Coroner June H. Wood pronounced Mr. Purvis dead at the scene. An autopsy will be scheduled.

The Potsdam Volunteer Rescue Squad and Potsdam village police assisted at the scene.

A state police investigation into the accident is continuing.