Two-Vehicle Crash Reported in Woodstock

Collision pushes cars into guardrail at entrance to historic covered bridge

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

The Woodstock Police Department responded to a two-car motor vehicle crash with injuries on West Woodstock Road on February 22, 2026. Upon arrival, officers observed two vehicles with significant front-end damage against the guardrail at the entrance to the Lincoln Covered Bridge. The preliminary investigation determined that one driver crossed the centerline, leading to a head-on collision.

Why it matters

Motor vehicle crashes can cause serious injuries and damage, especially in rural areas with historic landmarks like the Lincoln Covered Bridge. This incident highlights the importance of safe driving practices and the need for continued vigilance on Vermont's roads.

The details

The crash occurred when Joseph K. Meagher, 34, of Claremont, New Hampshire, was driving a 2009 Chevrolet Silverado westbound and crossed the centerline, colliding head-on with a 2024 Toyota Rav 4 operated by Hayley Koppelkam, 32, of Hartford. The collision pushed both vehicles into the guardrail at the entrance to the Lincoln Covered Bridge.

  • The Woodstock Police Department responded to the crash at approximately 1:48 p.m. on February 22, 2026.

The players

Joseph K. Meagher

A 34-year-old from Claremont, New Hampshire, who was driving a 2009 Chevrolet Silverado westbound and crossed the centerline, leading to the head-on collision.

Hayley Koppelkam

A 32-year-old from Hartford, Vermont, who was driving a 2024 Toyota Rav 4 and was involved in the head-on collision with Meagher's vehicle.

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What’s next

The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and the Woodstock Police Department is asking anyone with information to contact them at (802) 457-1420.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices, especially in rural areas with historic landmarks. The crash highlights the potential for serious injuries and damage when drivers fail to stay in their lane, underscoring the need for continued vigilance on Vermont's roads.