MILFORD, CT — A detached tire crossed the concrete median on I-95 in Milford late Sunday and hit a Toyota RAV4 traveling southbound, triggering a crash that killed a 24-year-old Stratford woman, according to state police. The wreck shut down parts of the highway for seven hours while investigators worked at the scene.
What happened on I-95 near Exit 41?
State police said the crash began at 10:23 p.m. Sunday on I-95 southbound near Exit 41. A tire came loose from a pickup truck on the opposite side of the highway, crossed over the barrier in the median, and struck the Toyota’s windshield and roof.
The SUV then veered right, crossed all lanes, hit the metal-beam guardrail on the shoulder, and moved back across the roadway before stopping in the center median.
Who was killed in the crash?
Police identified the driver killed in the wreck as Catherine Palaia, 24, of Stratford. She was declared dead at the scene.
Authorities did not say how many people were inside the Toyota RAV4.
Were anyone else injured?
State police said the two people in the pickup truck were not hurt. No other injuries were reported in the initial account of the crash.
The highway closure affected both sides of I-95 near the scene as crews responded.
What happens next in the investigation?
The Collision Analysis & Reconstruction Squad, the Department of Transportation, and the Milford Fire Department all responded to assist. State police said the investigation remains open.
Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact Troop G at 203-696-2500.
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