AMHERST, N.Y. (WBEN).......Amherst police are continuing to investigate what led to a vehicle crashing into the former Abbey Square restaurant, which resulted in a fire that gutted the building and may have led to the death of the driver.
The accident was reported just after 3 a.m. Monday.
According to sources, a car - A 2021 Honda CRV- was northbound on Union Road headed from Cheektowaga into Amherst when the driver knocked down a telephone pole at the corner of Union Road and Wehrle Drive and the then crossed through a parking lot of a glass repair shop before running into the Abbey Square restaurant.
The Honda rolled on its passenger side and caught on fire and that fire spread quickly through the restaurant.
The male driver, who has not yet been identified, was pronounced dead at the scene. His name has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
Amherst police declined to comment further on the accident and fire.
Snyder Volunteer Fire Co. Chief Tim Oliver said when he and his crew arrived, the building was engulfed with flames shooting through the roof.
The Williamsville Volunteer Fire Co. was called in as Oliver called for second alarm.
The Abbey Square closed in early 2025.
Portions of Wehrle Drive and Union Road have been re-opened.
Police and fire officials are continuing to probe the accident and fire.
Possible fatal accident may have lead to the fire
Possible fatal accident may have lead to the fire
