SEARSBURG, VT — A head-on collision on Vermont Route 9 claimed the life of a Massachusetts man Tuesday morning.
Alan J. Vautrain, 53, of Ludlow, Massachusetts, was pronounced dead at the scene following the crash near Old Route 9.
Vermont State Police troopers from the Shaftsbury barracks were notified of the two-vehicle crash at 10:53 a.m. in the area of 1660 Vermont Route 9.
It was reported one of the operators was entrapped and unresponsive.
Initial investigations revealed Vautrain was traveling east on Vermont Route 9 when he entered the oncoming lane of traffic.
The second operator, Robert S. Ruhl, 72, of Wilmington, attempted to swerve into the other lane to avoid a collision.
Vautrain also attempted to swerve back into his lane at the last second, causing a head-on collision.
Both vehicles were totaled as a result of the crash.
Vautrain was driving a 2017 Toyota Rav-4, and Ruhl was operating a 2025 Lexus RX.
Ruhl was transported to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center to be treated for minor injuries.
Both operators were wearing seat belts.
Vermont State Police were assisted by Wilmington Fire Department, Deerfield Valley Rescue and Walt’s Towing.
The investigation is ongoing, and any witnesses are encouraged to contact Trooper Stevens with Vermont State Police Shaftsbury at (802) 442-5421.
