Corey Lemoine Obituary, Death – Authorities in Franklin County are investigating a late-night crash that led to the passing of a pedestrian in Highgate on Monday. According to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 11 p.m. on Highgate Road. Officials say that 40-year-old Corey Lemoine was walking near the middle of the road when he was struck by a pickup truck that had just turned a corner. Sadly, Lemoine did not survive the impact and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Deputies reported that foggy weather conditions significantly reduced visibility at the time of the crash, which may have contributed to the tragic event. Investigators said that neither speed nor driver impairment appeared to play a role. The driver of the pickup truck remained on scene and cooperated fully with law enforcement. No charges have been filed at this time, though the investigation remains active as authorities continue to gather information and analyze evidence.
Franklin County Sheriff John Grismore explained that investigators are awaiting the results of toxicology testing for Lemoine to help determine whether any other factors may have influenced why he was walking in the roadway at that hour. Sheriff Grismore also noted that the situation underscores the dangers of limited visibility on rural roads at night, particularly in poor weather conditions such as heavy fog.
Emergency personnel from several nearby agencies assisted at the scene, including the Swanton Village Police Department, Vermont State Police, Orleans County Sheriff’s Department, Missisquoi Valley Rescue, Highgate Fire Department, and AmCare Ambulance Service. Their coordinated response ensured the roadway was safely managed while investigators documented the scene and provided aid where needed.
Authorities temporarily closed part of Highgate Road to allow for evidence collection and cleanup before reopening the area to traffic later in the night. Officials thanked residents for their patience and urged drivers to exercise additional caution during periods of low visibility, such as fog or heavy rain.
As the investigation continues, deputies are reconstructing the crash to understand its sequence of events. This includes evaluating the lighting conditions, the driver’s speed prior to the collision, and visibility at the curve where the crash occurred. Investigators are also reviewing whether roadway design or environmental conditions played any part in the incident.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that nighttime travel on rural roads can be hazardous for both drivers and pedestrians. Law enforcement officials reminded the public to use reflective gear or flashlights when walking after dark, and for motorists to reduce their speed when visibility is poor to help prevent similar tragedies.
Residents in Highgate and neighboring communities have expressed sympathy for Lemoine’s family and friends following the incident. Local officials described it as a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly accidents can occur, even when drivers are following the rules of the road.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office continues to lead the investigation, working closely with crash reconstruction specialists and other law enforcement partners to ensure all factors surrounding the incident are properly examined. Once the toxicology results and final reports are complete, findings will be reviewed to determine whether any additional action is warranted.
For now, authorities have not released any additional information about the driver or vehicle involved. Updates will be provided once the investigation concludes.
Anyone with information or who may have been in the area of Highgate Road around 11 p.m. Monday is encouraged to contact the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident marks another sobering moment for the community, reminding both pedestrians and drivers alike of the importance of visibility, awareness, and caution during nighttime travel.