FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — A local firefighter died in a three-vehicle crash in Franklin County on July 24.

It occurred around 6:30 a.m. on Sontag Road near Cooper Road.

According to Virginia State Police, a 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe was going east on Sontag Road when it crossed the centerline and sideswiped a 1996 Jeep Cherokee before striking a 2001 Pontiac Sunfire head-on.

43-year-old Sherman Dale Mason, of Snow Creek, was driving the Pontiac, was not wearing his seatbelt and died at the scene, state police said.

The 30-year-old driver of the Chevrolet was not wearing his seatbelt but was uninjured.

The 52-year-old driver of the Jeep was wearing her seatbelt and was also uninjured.

Police said charges are pending for the driver of the Chevrolet.

The crash remains under investigation.

The Henry Volunteer Fire Department announced Mason’s death in a Facebook post.

“It’s with great sadness that I have to announce the loss of one of our department’s long-time firefighters and treasurer, Dale Mason, in a tragic accident today,” said Fire Chief Scott Cowen. “Dale was a huge asset not only to our department but also to our community and will be sorely missed by all.”

Chief Cowen requested that the community keep Mason’s wife, children, and family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

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