Obituary, Death Steven Rowland, Thomas and Olga Vitale, and Unnamed Fourth Victim Killed in Tragic Merritt Parkway Crash as Wrong-Way Driver Causes Head-On Collision
A devastating collision on the Merritt Parkway in Connecticut early Thursday morning resulted in the tragic loss of four lives and a seven-hour closure of one side of the roadway. The accident, which occurred at approximately 1:43 a.m. in Stratford, involved a head-on collision between a Chrysler Town & Country minivan and a Honda CRV.
The authorities have identified three of the victims as Steven Rowland, 55, Thomas Lucian Vitale, 80, and Olga Vitale, 81, all from Easton, approximately 15 miles northwest of Stratford. The fourth victim, the driver of the Honda CRV, has not been identified due to severe injuries, and an autopsy is pending to determine their identity.
According to state police, the Honda CRV, registered in Massachusetts, was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes when it collided with the minivan, resulting in a fiery crash. The authorities are investigating the incident, and anyone with information is urged to contact state police at 203-696-2500.
The driver of the minivan, Steven Rowland, was a beloved member of the Easton community, known for his kindness and dedication to his family. Thomas and Olga Vitale were a loving couple who had been married for over 50 years and were active members of their local church.
The incident has raised concerns over wrong-way crashes in Connecticut, with officials stating that nearly all such crashes are caused by drunken drivers. The state Department of Transportation has identified 200 off-ramps as “high risk” due to multiple ramps meeting at the same location.
In an effort to prevent wrong-way crashes, state crews have been installing alert systems on highway ramps that flash bright red lights to drivers going the wrong way. Some locations also alert state police and transportation officials.
In addition to the tragic loss of life, the incident also highlights the importance of driver vigilance and responsibility. Wrong-way crashes are often preventable, and drivers must remain alert and aware of their surroundings at all times.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the cause of the crash and the identity of the fourth victim. The Merritt Parkway southbound lanes between exits 53 and 52 remained closed until 8:30 a.m. as authorities worked to clear the scene.
The incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of wrong-way crashes and the importance of prioritizing safety on our roads. The community is coming together to support the families of the victims, and a memorial service is being planned to honor their memories.
In conclusion, the tragic accident on the Merritt Parkway has resulted in the loss of four lives and raised concerns over wrong-way crashes in Connecticut. As the investigation continues, it is crucial for drivers to remain vigilant and follow traffic rules to prevent such incidents. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of road safety and the devastating consequences of reckless driving.
