An overnight incident on Interstate 95 in Newbury, Massachusetts, left a tragic mark as a man driving the wrong way slammed head-on into another vehicle. This collision not only trapped both drivers but also led to the death of an Endicott College police sergeant and serious injuries to the wrong-way driver.
"Interstate 95 Tragedy: Wrong-Way Crash and Its Consequences"
Initial Incident Details
The Newbury Fire Department was alerted just after midnight to a serious motor vehicle crash on I-95 northbound near Exit 81. Two passenger cars had collided head-on, with both drivers trapped inside their vehicles. Massachusetts State Police initially reported a wrong-way Tesla traveling south into Massachusetts around midnight. Troopers maintained visual contact with the vehicle through the Newburyport area as law enforcement prepared a tire-deflation device in Georgetown.Before reaching the device, the Tesla struck a Chevrolet Trailblazer at Mile Marker 81.5. Firefighters then embarked on a "lengthy and delicate" extrication process to free the drivers. After nearly an hour, they were successfully removed from their vehicles.The wrong-way Tesla driver sustained serious injuries and was airlifted by Boston MedFlight to a trauma center. His identity has not been released, but he is a man in his 40s from southeastern Massachusetts and is expected to face charges.Tragic Loss of Endicott College Police Sergeant
The Chevrolet driver, identified as Endicott College Police Sergeant Jeremy Cole, 49, of Exeter, NH, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. "We offer our condolences to the family, loved ones, and colleagues of Sergeant Cole at this difficult time," state police said in their press release."On behalf of the Public Safety & Police Department at Endicott College, I wish to express our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the family of Sgt. Cole. This is an incredibly difficult time for our department. We are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss. Sgt. Cole was not only a dedicated public servant and prior recipient of a lifesaving award, but also a cherished member of our team," said Endicott College Chief of Police Kerry Ramsdell in a statement.Assistance and Closure
Newburyport, Georgetown, and Rowley firefighters provided crucial assistance on the scene. One vehicle appeared to be completely mangled from the wreck. The interstate was closed in both directions for several hours to ensure the safety of motorists and first responders. Portions of I-95 northbound remained closed early Thursday morning during the investigation.Officials have not yet explained why the Tesla driver was traveling the wrong direction or what charges he may face. The matter is still under investigation by state police detectives assigned to the Essex County District Attorney's Office.