A multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 395 in Norwich sent shockwaves through the community on Tuesday, leaving three people injured and shutting down the freeway’s southbound lanes. Connecticut State Police rushed to Exit 18 around 1:30 p.m. after receiving reports of the crash, later confirming that two men and a woman were taken to William W. Backus Hospital for treatment.
A white Kenworth T880 was driving southbound on the construction-zoned route, carrying a 25,000-pound metal beam. According to the police statement, the truck collided with the backs of a white Hino 268 and a green Jeep Renegade on the road, pushing the Hino into a white Mercedes-Benz GLC.
During the incident, the Kenworth’s metal beam got unfastened and smashed through the back of the vehicle’s driver compartment, trapping the driver within. He was critically hurt and taken to William W. Backus Hospital by ambulance, according to the police statement.
The operators of the Mercedes-Benz and Hino were also taken to the hospital with probable minor injuries, according to the summary.
Connecticut State Police said that the local fire department and emergency medical services were dispatched to the area, and the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection was notified of a fuel spill. Interstate 395 South was closed from exits 18 to 14. According to the state Department of Transportation’s website, the roadway was opened Tuesday evening.
The investigation is underway.
Anyone with additional information on the crash is encouraged to contact Trooper Timothy Wengloski at 860-848-6500.