BENSALEM, Pa. — An investigation is underway after a violent, multi-vehicle crash early Tuesday morning at the Interstate 95 interchange on Street Road left a 44-year-old New York City man dead and two others critically injured. The crash happened just after midnight and caused a vehicle to burst into flames, prompting a large emergency response.
According to police, first responders were dispatched to Street Road at the I-95 interchange around 12 a.m. Tuesday after reports of a serious crash involving three vehicles. When crews arrived, they encountered a chaotic scene, including a silver 2013 Chevrolet Sonic fully engulfed in flames. Authorities said the driver of that vehicle had been ejected before the car caught fire.
The driver was identified as Timur Khabelov, 44, of Brooklyn, New York. Officials said Khabelov was pronounced dead at the scene. The violent impact and intense fire left little chance for life-saving efforts, according to investigators.
Police said two other men — a 43-year-old and a 39-year-old — were trapped inside the burning Chevrolet Sonic when first responders arrived. Firefighters and police worked quickly to pull both men from the vehicle despite the flames. Both victims were rushed to the hospital, where they remain in critical condition, officials said.
A preliminary investigation indicates the Chevrolet Sonic was traveling eastbound on Street Road at a high rate of speed as it approached the intersection leading to the I-95 interchange. Police allege the driver ran a red light and crashed into a Dodge Journey that was exiting I-95 and turning toward westbound Street Road. The force of the collision caused the Sonic to erupt in flames.
Investigators are continuing to examine the crash, including vehicle speeds, traffic signals, and possible contributing factors. Police have not released information on whether alcohol or drugs may have played a role. Authorities said additional details will be released as the investigation progresses. The crash serves as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of speeding and ignoring traffic signals, especially at busy highway interchanges during overnight hours.