Vehicle Swerved To Avoid Another Vehicle Before Fatal I-89 Crash

NEW LONDON, NH — The New Hampshire State Police believe a crash that killed three people on I-89 North in New London Sunday was caused by one vehicle swerving to avoid crashing into another vehicle that was driving into its lane. At just before 11:30 a.m., troopers were called the Interstate just north of Exit 12 for a report of a rollover crash, with ejections. The crash was reported in the median.

"Troopers responded to the scene along with New London police and fire departments," said Staff Sgt. Steven Wheeler of the NHSP. "Upon arrival it was determined that three people had been ejected from a single vehicle."

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According to witnesses, the SUV from Massachusetts was driving north when another vehicle may have merged into the high-speed lane in front of the vehicle involved in the crash, according to the investigation. The vehicle involved in the crash swerved, lost control, left the Interstate, and drove into the median where it rolled over "an undetermined number of times."

Three people were ejected from the SUV and died.

The New Hampshire State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Unit was requested to respond to the scene and was assisted by the New London police and firefighters and the New Hampshire Department of Transportation. Traffic was diverted off at Exit 12 and then back on the Interstate, according to officials, with the investigation taking about four hours. All parties involved in the crash remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation, Wheeler said.

"At this time, it does not appear that impairment was a factor, however all aspects remain under investigation," he added.

Anyone that may have further information related to this crash or who witnessed this collision are encouraged to contact Trooper Christopher Pieniazak at 603-227-0031.

The personal information of those involved is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

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