In the early hours of Monday morning on Route 3 north in Billerica, Massachusetts, a series of events unfolded that would claim the life of a pedestrian. The incident began with a car fire and possible entrapment just before Treble Cove Road. State Police arrived on the scene and initially found no one trapped inside the Honda Accord but did discover a seriously injured pedestrian who was later pronounced dead.

Unraveling the Tragedy on Billerica's Highway

Initial Crash and Fire

Massachusetts State Police reported that shortly after midnight, a Honda Accord crashed and caught fire. This initial event set off a chain of events that would have a tragic outcome. The operator managed to exit the vehicle, but then another car, a Mercedes, struck the pedestrian in the left travel lane. The person who died has not yet been publicly identified as police are in the process of notifying family members.

This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of highway accidents and the potential for multiple vehicles to be involved. It serves as a reminder of the importance of safety on the roads and the need for prompt response from emergency services.

Closure of Route 3 and Emergency Response

Billerica police quickly diverted traffic away from the crash site, and Route 3 was closed until 4 a.m. WBZ-TV captured the scene with multiple emergency vehicles near a damaged guardrail, a crashed car on the side of the road, and a long traffic backup. State Police Crime Scene Services and the Collision Analysis Reconstruction team responded to the crash, while Billerica firefighters worked to put out the flames.

The coordinated efforts of these emergency services demonstrate their crucial role in such situations. Their quick response and expertise help to ensure the safety of the public and the proper investigation of the accident.

Speed Limit Increase and Its Implications

Earlier this year, the speed limit on Route 3 between I-95 and the New Hampshire border was raised by 10 mph, from 55 mph to 65 mph. This change has raised questions about its impact on safety. Route 3 was previously the only three-lane highway in the state without a 65 mph speed limit.

The crash on Monday morning has now brought these speed limit changes into focus. It is important to assess whether the increase in speed limit has contributed to the accident or if other factors were at play. Investigations will be ongoing to determine the exact cause of the crash and whether any changes to traffic regulations are needed.