Two Massachusetts men lost their lives Thursday afternoon in a devastating head-on collision on Interstate 295 in Cumberland, Rhode Island, according to Rhode Island State Police.
The crash was reported at approximately 3:31 p.m. on I-295 North near the Mendon Road overpass. When troopers arrived, they discovered several damaged vehicles, including a Dodge Ram 1500, a Hyundai Ioniq and an Acura ADX.
The Hyundai and Dodge had sustained severe damage, with both drivers trapped inside their vehicles. Emergency crews worked quickly to extricate the occupants. Authorities said the Hyundai, an electric vehicle, had begun smoldering and later became fully engulfed in flames after the driver was removed.
The driver of the Hyundai was identified as 29-year-old Joel Costa of Hyde Park, Massachusetts. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Dodge, 44-year-old Jonathan Welch of Norton, Massachusetts, was transported to Rhode Island Hospital for treatment. Despite medical efforts, Welch later died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Investigators said multiple witnesses reported seeing the Hyundai traveling recklessly before the collision. Witnesses reportedly described the vehicle as speeding and passing other motorists by traveling through the grassy median on the southbound side of the interstate.
According to investigators, preliminary findings indicate that the Hyundai veered into the median, struck the center guardrail and crossed into the northbound lanes. It then collided head-on with the Dodge. The force of the impact caused the Dodge to overturn onto its passenger side before it sideswiped the Acura, which sustained minor damage.
State police reported that neither Costa nor Welch was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation, and authorities may release additional information as the investigation continues.
The deaths of Costa and Welch have left their families, friends and communities mourning two lives lost in a sudden and tragic roadway collision.
Our deepest condolences go to the families, friends and loved ones of Joel Costa and Jonathan Welch. May those grieving find strength, comfort and support during this difficult time, and may their memories remain a source of peace.
Disclaimer: This report is based on information provided by authorities and the supplied news report. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details may be released as officials continue determining the circumstances of the crash.
