Driver dies after crashing into creek

Amherst police are investigating the death of a Tonawanda man whose car plunged into Ellicott Creek Tuesday morning.

At 7 a.m., witnesses reported seeing the 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier operated by Natale C. Fanara, 51, leave the westbound lane of North Ellicott Creek Road, cross the eastbound lane and a grassy area, and veer into the creek.

Ellicott Creek Fire Department divers and EMS volunteers responded to the scene. Mr. Fanara was located and pulled from the creek.

Despite first aid and resuscitation attempts, he was pronounced dead at DeGraff Hospital shortly after the accident.

Amherst Police Capt. Patrick McKenna said an investigation will continue into the cause of the accident, including an autopsy to determine if Mr. Fanara suffered from any medical condition that might explain the sudden loss of control of his vehicle.

No other damage or injuries were reported.

This is the fifth fatal vehicle accident in the Town of Amherst this year.