Portsmouth, NH — January 14, 2025, One person was killed, and two were injured following a car accident that occurred at around 6:45 P.M. on Interstate 95.

An investigation is underway into a car accident that left one person dead during the evening hours of January 14th. According to official reports, a three vehicle accident occurred in the southbound lanes of I-95 in the vicinity of mile marker 13, with one of the vehicles having caught fire.

When first responders arrived on the scene they found that three people were injured, one of them seriously, and transported them to the hospital for treatment. The seriously injured person ultimately succumbed to their wounds and was pronounced deceased, with the other two persons reportedly suffering only minor injuries. Due to the investigation being in its infancy, there are many details that have not yet been released, therefore certain information such as how the accident occurred and the identities of those involved, remains unknown.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When reviewing reports of an accident like the one that occurred on I-95 near mile marker 13, the first and most pressing consideration is determining what caused the crash and how the events unfolded. A three-vehicle accident involving injuries, a fatality, and a vehicle fire presents a complex scenario that demands a thorough investigation. To understand the circumstances fully, it is essential to focus on three critical questions.

First, did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash? In a multi-vehicle collision, it is crucial to examine how each vehicle came to be involved and what role each played in the sequence of events. This involves analyzing the crash site for physical evidence, such as skid marks, vehicle positions, and the spread of debris. The involvement of a vehicle fire adds another layer of complexity, as fires can destroy evidence of mechanical issues or obscure critical details about the collision. Law enforcement investigators must account for all these factors, but resource constraints or time pressures can sometimes limit the depth of their investigation. If gaps exist, further independent review may be necessary.

Second, has anyone looked into the possibility that a vehicle defect caused the crash? The potential for mechanical failures or design defects to contribute to accidents is often overlooked. For example, brake failures, fuel system vulnerabilities, or problems with electrical components could have played a role, especially given that one vehicle caught fire. A detailed forensic examination of all involved vehicles is vital to identify any such defects. Preserving the vehicles in their post-crash condition is crucial, as this allows investigators to assess whether a manufacturing flaw or maintenance issue may have contributed to the incident.

Third, has all the electronic data relating to the crash been collected? Vehicles involved in this collision likely contained electronic control modules (ECMs) that store data on key factors like speed, braking, and steering inputs. Additionally, video footage from nearby traffic cameras, dashcams, or cell phone recordings could provide valuable context about the moments leading up to the crash. Collecting this data promptly is critical, as it can deteriorate or be overwritten if not preserved in time. Such evidence can help reconstruct the sequence of events and clarify the roles of all involved.

Understanding the causes of an accident like this is not only important for those directly affected but also for the broader goal of preventing similar incidents in the future. By ensuring that these three questions are addressed—evaluating the thoroughness of the investigation, investigating the possibility of vehicle defects, and securing all relevant electronic data—we can work toward providing answers to those impacted and ensuring accountability where necessary. These steps are essential in striving for a complete and accurate understanding of the events that led to this loss.