Two cars crash in Bethlehem, 17-year-old driver dies

Friday, May 12, 2023 - 19:59

BETHLEHEM — Two cars crashed on Thursday afternoon and both drivers were taken to the hospital, according to a May 11 release from the Bethlehem Police.

Police reported on Monday that the driver of one of the cars, a 17-year-old male from Colonie, died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.

On May 13, the South Colonie schools superintendent, David Perry, posted a letter on the district’s website mourning the loss of high school senior Michael Kleinke, who died after “a serious car accident” on Thursday afternoon.

“Let us come together as a compassionate and supportive community, offering our support and comfort to one another as we mourn the loss of a bright and promising young individual,” wrote Perry.

The other driver, police said, is Thomas F. McGrath, age 71, of Slingerlands.

Police responded a little after 2 p.m. to the scene of the crash on State Route 85 near the Albany city line. The crash remains under investigation, the Monday release said.

The crash is being investigated by the Albany County Crash Investigation Team as well as the Bethlehem Police.

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