Vernon Man Killed In Crash

VERNON, CT — A Vernon man was killed Friday afternoon in a crash on Interstate 291 westbound in South Windsor, according to Connecticut State Police.

Kennedy O. Osayande, 55, of Vernon, was pronounced dead at the scene after the crash, which was reported at 2:55 p.m. Friday, June 26, near the Exit 2 off ramp, according to an accident information summary from state police.

State police said a 2023 Freightliner Cascadia tractor-trailer was traveling west on I-291 between the Exit 2 off and on ramps in the right lane. A 2006 Lexus RX 400 Hybrid AWD SUV was traveling directly behind the tractor-trailer, according to the report.

For an unknown reason, the Lexus hit the back of the tractor-trailer, state police said.

Osayande sustained serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, according to state police. The driver of the tractor-trailer reported minor injuries but refused medical treatment.

The tractor-trailer was able to be driven from the scene. The Lexus was towed due to disabling damage, state police said.

The crash remains under investigation. Anyone who witnessed the crash, or anyone with dash camera video from the area at the time, is asked to contact TFC John Wilson #1060 at john.wilson@ct.gov.

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