AUGUSTA COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — The top mental health official in Virginia died Friday from injuries he suffered in a deadly crash in Augusta County earlier in the week, Gov. Ralph Northam said in a statement. Authorities say Dr. S. Hughes Melton could have been having a medical emergency during the three-car crash that killed a teen at the scene.

The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services Commissioner, Samuel H. Melton, hit the rear bumper of another vehicle on Route 254, according to Virginia State Police. Melton, 52, of Bristol, then crossed the center line and hit another car head-on, VSP said. In that car was Hailey D. Green, 18, of Staunton, who died at the scene.

According to VSP, Melton “may have suffered a medical emergency, which is being investigated as a factor in the crash.” Gov. Northam released a statement Friday confirming Melton’s death:

Pam and I are deeply saddened by the death of Dr. Hughes Melton, Commissioner of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. Dr. Melton passed away today from injuries he sustained in a car accident on Wednesday. We extend our thoughts and prayers to Dr. Melton’s wife, daughters, and family and friends. We also extend our prayers and sympathies to the family of Hailey Green, a young woman from Staunton who was killed in the accident. 

Dr. Melton was a fellow veteran and physician. In 2018, I appointed Dr. Melton to serve Virginia as our DBHDS commissioner, a role he filled ably and with enthusiasm. His public service also included his previous appointment as Deputy Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Health, as well as service on a number of boards and groups devoted to improving the medical profession, health policy, and addiction treatment. Dr. Melton for many years made his home in Southwest Virginia, where he built a well-respected career as a family physician and addiction expert.

Not only was Dr. Melton a devoted public servant and physician, I considered him a friend.

Our thoughts are with all who knew and loved both Hughes Melton and Hailey Green.”

Gov. Ralph Northam

Melton formerly worked as a VP at Mountain States Health Alliance in the Tri-Cities region.

No other injuries were reported and all drivers involved were wearing their seat belts.

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