UPDATE: Driver who crashed into utility pole on State Route 26 in Lee swerved to avoid pair of horses in roadway

LEE- Emergency authorities responded to a single vehicle accident during the early hours Wednesday in Oneida County, where a utility pole was damaged.

As of this report, members from the Sheriff’s Office say a portion of State Route 26 – between Weaver and Converse Roads in the town of Lee – has officially re-opened to traffic flow.

It’s reported that a vehicle damaged a utility pole and there were low hanging wires as a result. It happened just before 1:00 a.m.

The driver involved in this accident has been identified as Nicholas R. Northrup, 35, of Boonville, NY.

Deputies say he was heading north in a 2008 Chevy Silverado when the accident occurred. Northrup testified that he came across a pair of horses in the roadway and swerved to avoid collision, but still ended up smashing into the utility pole instead.

Members of AmCare Ambulance took Northrup to Rome Memorial Hospital for what police described as non-life threatening injuries.

According to an update from Boonville’s Municipal Commission, the power from West Branch and south will be turned off while crews work to install a new pole and finish repairs.

Members from Lee Center and Lake Delta Fire Departments assisted.

*This story was updated with additional information as of 5:05 a.m.

Oneida County Sheriff's Office image.