Norris Bridge crash: Speed and alcohol cause 2 fatalities

Speed and alcohol were identified as significant factors in a tragic head-on collision on the Robert O. Norris Jr. Bridge in Lancaster County, as per Virginia State Police. The incident occurred on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at approximately 6:53 p.m., resulting in two fatalities. The deceased individuals were identified as Crystal Michelle Lyles, 42, from White Stone, Va., and Ernesto Santiago, 53, from Hampton, Va. The crash involved a 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350 SUV, a 2024 Subaru Outback, and a 2014 Ford Fusion. Jesse David Foster, 30, of White Stone, Va., was driving the Mercedes-Benz at a high speed when he attempted to pass another vehicle in the opposite lane, ultimately causing a collision with the Subaru Outback and the Ford Fusion. Lyles, who was a passenger in Foster's vehicle, was fatally ejected from the car, while Santiago, the driver of the Ford Fusion, also lost his life. Foster survived the crash and was airlifted to the hospital for medical attention. The police investigation revealed that none of the individuals in the Mercedes-Benz or the Ford Fusion were wearing seat belts at the time of the accident. The Norris Bridge sustained damage, leading to the closure of the eastbound lane for emergency inspections by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). Investigations are ongoing with the support of the Virginia State Police Division One Crash Reconstruction Team. Please reach out to the CBS 6 Newsroom if you have additional information regarding this incident.