BERKSHIRE, Vt. — A Franklin County community is grieving after 20-year-old Evan Donna of Berkshire died Friday evening from injuries sustained in a violent car crash earlier this month.
According to Vermont State Police, the single-vehicle crash happened around Aug. 10 along Berkshire Center Road. Troopers arriving at the scene found a 2008 Toyota Camry Solara that had flipped over and was totaled in the roadway.
Inside, officers discovered Donna, who was critically injured. Emergency crews worked quickly to extract him from the wreckage before rushing him to Northwest Medical Center. He was later transferred to University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington due to the severity of his injuries.
Despite more than a week of intensive medical care, police confirmed that Donna passed away on Friday, Aug. 22, surrounded by loved ones.
A Promising Young Life Cut Short
Family, friends, and neighbors say the death of Donna has left a painful void in the Berkshire community. At just 20 years old, he was remembered as a vibrant young man with his whole life ahead of him.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare,” one community member shared. “Evan was kind, respectful, and loved by many. It just doesn’t feel real.”
Community members who had been holding out hope for his recovery are now uniting to support his family as they navigate this devastating loss.
Ongoing Crash Investigation
Police have not yet released a final determination on what caused the crash. However, they noted the severity of the wreck suggested speed or driver error could have contributed.
Detectives are still gathering evidence and encourage anyone with information about the incident to contact the St. Albans Barracks at 802-524-5993.
Vermont State Police said it could take several weeks before a full reconstruction of the crash is complete.
Road Safety Concerns
Local authorities used the tragic incident to underscore the risks of driving on rural Vermont roads, where sharp curves, narrow shoulders, and limited visibility can quickly turn dangerous.
“Every loss on our roads is one too many,” a spokesperson for Vermont State Police said. “Our hearts are with the Donna family during this incredibly difficult time, and we continue to urge drivers to slow down and stay alert.”
A Community in Mourning
As news of Donna’s passing spread across Franklin County, tributes poured in on social media and from those who knew him personally.
Neighbors described him as a young man with a “bright smile and a big heart.” Friends recalled his humor and his willingness to help others.
Berkshire residents say they will continue to honor his memory while standing behind his grieving family.
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