Early Thursday morning, a tragic accident on the Piscataqua River Bridge claimed the life of 41-year-old Jacob Wolterbeek from Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The bridge, connecting Maine and New Hampshire on Interstate 95, became the scene of a fatal crash that has prompted a detailed investigation by the Maine State Police.
At approximately 1:14 a.m., Wolterbeek was driving southbound on the bridge when traffic came to a halt on the New Hampshire side due to a previous accident. This caused a box truck to be stationary in the southbound lane on the Maine side. Wolterbeek’s Toyota Camry collided with the rear of the stopped truck, resulting in significant damage to his vehicle. Tragically, Wolterbeek was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported.
First responders quickly secured the area, and southbound lanes of I-95 were closed for several hours to allow for a thorough investigation and removal of the wreckage. The Maine State Police have yet to release further details regarding the crash's circumstances, including factors such as speed, road conditions, or visibility at the time of the collision. The southbound lanes were reopened later in the morning, restoring traffic across the bridge.
This tragic accident emphasizes the dangers associated with sudden traffic stops on high-speed highways. Authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant and cautious when approaching areas of slowed or stopped traffic, particularly on high-traffic bridges like the Piscataqua River Bridge, where visibility may be limited.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Jacob Wolterbeek, highlighting the devastating impact that roadway incidents can have. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for heightened awareness and caution while driving, especially in areas prone to sudden traffic changes. Authorities hope that the investigation will provide clarity and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Maine State Police encourage anyone with additional information about the crash to come forward to aid in their ongoing investigation. In the wake of this accident, the importance of road safety and the impact of such incidents on individuals and communities are brought sharply into focus. The death of Jacob Wolterbeek underscores the critical need for driver vigilance and adherence to safety protocols to protect all road users.
