In Loving Memory of Brandy LaFlesh: Oneida Community Mourns After Fatal Traffic Incident
The Oneida community is grieving the sudden and tragic loss of 46-year-old Brandy LaFlesh of Oneida, who lost her life in a fatal crash on the evening of November 18, 2025. What began as a routine traffic stop on State Route 365 in the Town of Verona ended in heartbreak, leaving a family and community struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.
According to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began at approximately 9:18 p.m. when a deputy initiated a traffic stop on a Lexus SUV driven by LaFlesh for a minor traffic infraction. Before the deputy could confirm whether LaFlesh was wanted by the Oneida City Court, she fled the scene. In accordance with the department’s no-pursuit policy, the deputy did not follow the vehicle, prioritizing public safety.
Tragically, just over thirty minutes later, authorities discovered the same SUV had been involved in a serious crash on Blackmans Corners Road. Emergency responders arrived on the scene to find Brandy LaFlesh had succumbed to injuries sustained in the collision. Her passenger, 56-year-old Michael Martino from the Town of Lee, was critically injured and transported to Wynn Hospital for treatment.
The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Unit, alongside the Forensic Identification Unit, is actively reconstructing the accident to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the devastating crash. Officials have pledged a thorough and careful investigation to provide clarity and closure for the family and community.
Friends and family remember Brandy LaFlesh as a vibrant, spirited individual whose life was deeply intertwined with the community she loved. She was known for her warmth, her dedication to her family, and her ability to bring light into the lives of those around her. Her untimely death has left a profound void, and neighbors and loved ones are coming together to honor her memory and offer support to those affected, particularly Michael Martino as he recovers from his injuries.
This tragic event is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of community support during times of grief. Local organizations and community leaders are offering counseling and resources to help those impacted navigate the emotional aftermath of such a sudden loss.
Brandy LaFlesh’s life, though tragically cut short, will be remembered for the joy, kindness, and love she shared with her family, friends, and community. Her passing has left an indelible mark on those who knew her, and the Oneida community mourns alongside her loved ones as they honor her memory.
As investigators continue their work to piece together the circumstances of the crash, the focus remains on remembering Brandy’s life, supporting her family, and offering hope and healing to all affected by this tragedy.
Brandy LaFlesh, 46, will be remembered not only for the life she lived but for the lasting impression she made on the hearts of everyone who knew her. May she rest in peace.
