34-Year-Old Ohio Lawyer and Passenger Killed in Multi-Vehicle Wreck on Interstate 77, Virginia
Virginia State Police are currently investigating a fatal multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 77 North in Carroll County that claimed the lives of two individuals from Cleveland, Ohio. The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, November 19, at approximately 2:55 a.m., near mile marker 9.
According to preliminary reports, Nicholas R. Oleski, 34, was driving a 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 northbound on Interstate 77 with his passenger, Justine A. Hitchcock, also 34 and from Cleveland, Ohio. Oleski’s vehicle veered off the left side of the road, colliding with the end of a railing before spinning back into the interstate. The impact set off a devastating chain reaction. The Mercedes struck a 2019 Ford F250, subsequently collided with a 2023 Volvo VRN tractor-trailer, and then hit a 2025 Peterbilt tractor-trailer before finally coming to rest on the right side of the highway.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the outcome was grim. Justine Hitchcock was pronounced dead at the scene. Nicholas Oleski was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries despite medical efforts. Virginia State Police confirmed that both Oleski and Hitchcock were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. Fortunately, the drivers and passengers of the other vehicles involved escaped unharmed.
The law firm of McCarthy, Lebit, Crystal & Liffman Co., LPA, where Nicholas Oleski was a partner, issued a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow over his passing. In their words, “Nick was a great lawyer, a valued colleague, and a treasured friend. McCarthy Lebit extends our deepest condolences to Nick’s family and loved ones. He will be missed by all and remembered always.” Oleski had built a reputation for his legal expertise and professionalism, leaving behind a legacy that resonated with his peers and clients alike.
As of now, Justine Hitchcock’s family has not released an official obituary or details regarding her funeral arrangements. Those who knew her have described her as a vibrant and caring individual whose untimely death leaves a profound void. Friends and family are grappling with the sudden loss and mourning the lives cut short in such a tragic manner.
The accident remains under investigation by Virginia State Police, who are working to piece together the events leading up to the crash. Factors such as speed, road conditions, and any potential mechanical failures will likely be considered in their ongoing efforts to determine the cause. Authorities have yet to disclose additional details, and no further updates have been provided about the incident.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability and dangers of the road. Both Nicholas Oleski and Justine Hitchcock leave behind grieving families and friends who are now faced with the difficult task of moving forward without them. Their lives, marked by their contributions to their communities and loved ones, will be remembered as their legacies endure.
