**Fatal Crash on U.S. Route 7 in Pownal, Vermont: School Bus and SUV Collide, One Dead and Driver Injured**
On the morning of Tuesday, May 6, 2025, a tragic collision occurred on U.S. Route 7 in Pownal, Vermont, involving a school bus and an SUV. The incident resulted in the death of 60-year-old Dana Zazinski, a resident of Pownal, and minor injuries to the school bus driver, 61-year-old Kimberly Galok from Eagle Bridge, New York.
Details of the Incident
At approximately 7:08 a.m., Vermont State Police responded to reports of a two-vehicle crash near a Vermont Agency of Transportation pull-off on Route 7. Preliminary investigations indicate that Zazinski was driving a 2018 Toyota RAV4 northbound when her vehicle crossed the center line under wet road conditions and collided head-on with a 2025 Ford E-350 school bus operated by Galok, who was traveling southbound.
The impact caused significant front and driver’s side damage to both vehicles. Zazinski was pronounced dead at the scene, while Galok sustained minor injuries and was transported to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center for treatment. Notably, there were no students on board the school bus at the time of the collision.
Emergency Response and Investigation
The crash led to the closure of Route 7 for nearly six hours to allow for thorough investigation and cleanup. Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles’ Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division, Bennington County Sheriff’s Department, Pownal Fire Department, Pownal Valley Fire Department, and Pownal Rescue Squad.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. Witnesses reported light rain at the time, which may have contributed to the accident. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Corporal Travis Hess at the Shaftsbury Barracks by calling (802) 442-5421.
Community Impact
The loss of Dana Zazinski has deeply affected the Pownal community. As the investigation continues, residents are reminded of the importance of road safety, especially under adverse weather conditions.
For more information and updates on this incident, please refer to the Vermont State Police News Release. (VSP News Releases)
