FRANKLIN, VA – Following an autopsy, Virginia State Police have identified one of the two victims that perished in a fiery crash that occurred near here last week.

Dana “Buddy” Maurice Watford, 48, of Powellsville was among those killed during a single vehicle accident that occurred on the morning of March 15 on US 258 (Smiths Ferry Road) near the intersection of Virginia State Route 189.

Sgt. Michelle Anaya, a spokesperson for the Virginia State Police, acknowledged in an email sent yesterday that Watford died in the mishap. The identity of the other fatal victim has yet to be determined. Anaya said last week that the driver and one passenger were burned beyond recognition.

She added that Watford was a passenger in the vehicle. According to his obituary, Watford was the father of four children and the grandfather of two. His funeral services are scheduled for 2 p.m. on Saturday (March 25) at Greater Wynns Missionary Baptist Church, Colerain.

A third passenger, 64-year-old John Futrell of Murfreesboro, suffered major injuries and was taken to VCU hospital in Richmond, VA.

The accident occurred when a 2006 Ford F-350 ran off the roadway into a wooded area and caught fire.

At present, the cause of the accident has not been released. Anaya also said it’s “an active investigation.”