A devastating crash in Gates, New York, left a 6-month-old baby dead and his mother with a traumatic brain injury. The collision happened on March 5 around 10:15 a.m. at the intersection of Buffalo Road and Howard Road.
Police say a black SUV struck the rear of a white SUV stopped at a traffic light.
Inside the vehicle were:
- Jake Carpenter
- Kelly Carpenter
- Their 6-month-old son, Noah
All three were rushed to the hospital.
Infant Dies from Injuries
According to authorities, baby Noah died from injuries after being transported to Strong Memorial Hospital.
He had been seated in a child safety seat at the time of the crash.
Emergency crews had to remove victims from the vehicles because of severe crash damage and entrapment.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Mother Suffers Severe Brain Injury
Kelly Carpenter suffered a severe traumatic brain injury.
According to a family fundraising page:
- She required emergency brain surgery
- She remains in critical condition
- Doctors continue monitoring her neurological recovery
Traumatic brain injuries can cause:
- Memory loss
- Cognitive impairment
- Speech difficulties
- Long-term disability
Recovery often requires months or years of rehabilitation.
Father Also Required Emergency Surgery
Jake Carpenter also suffered serious injuries.
Doctors reportedly treated:
- A major aortic injury
- Internal trauma requiring emergency surgery
He is expected to recover, though his medical treatment continues.
Rear-End Crashes Can Cause Severe Brain Injuries
Rear-end collisions may seem minor, but high-speed impacts can cause violent head and neck motion.
This sudden force can lead to:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Diffuse axonal injury
- Concussions
- Skull fractures
Infants are especially vulnerable due to fragile skulls and developing brains.
Legal Rights After a Catastrophic Crash
When a crash causes death or traumatic brain injury, families may have legal options.
Possible claims may involve:
Economic Damages
- Emergency medical care
- Surgery and hospitalization
- Long-term neurological treatment
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Lost income
Read “Economic Damages in California Personal Injury Claims” to learn more about this.
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of quality of life
If negligence caused the crash, families may also pursue wrongful death claims.
Read: “California Personal Injuries: What are Non-Economic Damages?” to learn more about this.
Investigators Continue to Examine the Crash
Authorities are still investigating:
- The actions of the driver who rear-ended the vehicle
- Whether speed or distraction contributed
- Other factors that may have caused the crash
Rear-end collisions are commonly linked to driver inattention or failure to stop in time.
How the Brain Injury Help Center Can Help
Crashes involving traumatic brain injuries can leave families facing overwhelming medical and financial challenges.
At the Brain Injury Help Center, we help families understand their rights after catastrophic accidents.
We offer:
- Free consultations
- No upfront fees
- Brain Injury Help Center Help secure compensation for long-term care
The medical treatment you need. Money you deserve.
If your loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car crash, contact the Brain Injury Help Center to learn your legal options.
