WESTBROOK, Conn. — A tragic multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 95 in Westbrook claimed the life of 39-year-old Nicholas J. Kupec of Waterford on Friday morning, after a truck lost part of its load and triggered a chain reaction of collisions, state police confirmed.
Crash Details
The crash unfolded just after 8 a.m. near Exit 65 on the northbound side of I-95, one of the state’s busiest travel corridors. According to investigators, a commercial truck shed part of its cargo while traveling in the right lane. The falling debris scattered across the highway, forcing drivers to swerve and brake abruptly.
What followed was a series of collisions involving multiple vehicles. Kupec, who was driving a passenger vehicle, was critically injured and pronounced dead at the scene. Several others were hurt and transported to area hospitals with injuries described as non-life-threatening.
Police closed a stretch of I-95 for hours while troopers, accident reconstruction specialists, and the Department of Transportation worked to clear the scene and collect evidence.
Ongoing Investigation
The truck driver, who remained on scene, is cooperating with investigators. Authorities said they are examining whether the cargo had been properly secured before the truck entered the highway. Dashcam footage, witness accounts, and physical evidence will all play a role in determining what led to the deadly spill.
“Incidents like this show just how dangerous unsecured loads can be,” one state police spokesperson said. “A few seconds of cargo loss can create a chain reaction with devastating consequences.”
As of Friday evening, no charges had been filed.
Community in Mourning
News of Kupec’s death has shaken the Waterford community, where he was widely respected and loved. Friends describe him as a dedicated family man with a warm personality and a willingness to help anyone in need.
“Nicholas had a way of making people feel welcome,” said a longtime neighbor. “His loss is heartbreaking for all of us.”
Tributes poured in on social media throughout the day, with many calling for prayers and support for his grieving family.
Safety Concerns Raised
The tragedy has once again drawn attention to highway safety concerns, particularly regarding commercial trucking. According to federal data, unsecured loads contribute to thousands of crashes across the U.S. each year, often with fatal outcomes.
Transportation officials stressed the need for companies and drivers to follow strict safety protocols to ensure that cargo is secured properly before hitting the road.
Looking Ahead
Funeral arrangements for Nicholas J. Kupec will be announced in the coming days. For now, his loved ones are remembering him as a man whose life was full of kindness, generosity, and love for those closest to him.
As police continue their investigation into the crash, the community of Waterford is left mourning a life taken too soon on one of Connecticut’s busiest highways.
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