A tragic crash early on New Year’s Day claimed the life of a Bland County man, Bradley S. Davis, 54, according to Virginia State Police. The fatal incident occurred precisely at 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2025, on Sugar Bottom Road, involving a homemade off-road vehicle.
Reports from the Virginia State Police reveal that Davis was driving the off-road vehicle, which was not designed for highway use, on Sugar Bottom Road near the intersection with Waddle Town Road. While traveling, Davis lost control of the vehicle, causing it to veer off the left side of the roadway and down an embankment. The vehicle overturned, ejecting both Davis and a passenger from the vehicle.
The investigation indicated that neither Davis nor the passenger were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. Tragically, Davis was pronounced dead at the scene due to the injuries sustained in the accident. The passenger, who was also not wearing a seatbelt, suffered serious injuries and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital. However, their condition was not disclosed in the initial report.
Virginia State Police are continuing their investigation into the exact cause of the crash and are examining why the vehicle veered off the road. Law enforcement officials have highlighted the importance of wearing seatbelts, noting that the failure to do so likely contributed to the severity of the injuries sustained in the crash.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of driving off-road vehicles on public roads, particularly those not designed for such use. Authorities have urged drivers and passengers to follow safety guidelines and wear seatbelts to reduce the risk of serious injury or death in similar situations.
As the investigation continues, Virginia State Police are asking the public to remain cautious and adhere to all safety measures when operating vehicles, especially in off-road conditions.