A heartbreaking crash on Interstate 95 in West Warwick, Rhode Island, claimed the lives of two Connecticut teenagers and left four others injured late Saturday night. According to Rhode Island State Police, troopers responded to the scene around 11:30 p.m. after receiving reports of a vehicle that had veered off the roadway and crashed into a wooded area along the interstate.
When officers arrived, they found a silver Toyota severely damaged after leaving the highway and colliding with a tree. All six occupants of the vehicle were trapped inside, forcing emergency crews from local fire and rescue departments to conduct an extensive and urgent extrication. First responders worked under challenging nighttime conditions to safely remove each victim from the wreckage, highlighting the severity of the crash and the complexity of the rescue effort.
Tragically, 19-year-old Ayanna Voyak of Hartford, Connecticut, was pronounced dead at the scene due to the extent of her injuries. Another passenger, 19-year-old Aisha Jules of New London, Connecticut, later died after being transported to Rhode Island Hospital. The four remaining occupants were also taken to the hospital for treatment, though their conditions have not been publicly released. The deaths of Voyak and Jules have left families, friends, and their home communities in deep mourning.
State police say the investigation into what caused the vehicle to leave the highway remains ongoing. Detectives are examining a variety of possible factors, including road and weather conditions, vehicle performance issues, and the actions of the driver leading up to the crash. Authorities are also reviewing evidence from the crash site and any available surveillance or traffic camera footage that may provide additional insight into the tragic incident.
The crash serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with nighttime highway travel, when visibility is reduced and reaction times become even more critical. Emergency responders noted that rapid reporting and coordinated rescue efforts were crucial in ensuring that the surviving occupants received immediate medical care. The difficult extrication process underscored the dangers first responders face when working serious crashes involving trapped victims.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to respect the privacy of the grieving families and to remain cautious on highways, especially during late-night hours. The Rhode Island State Police have asked anyone with information about the crash to contact investigators as they work to determine exactly what led to this devastating loss of life.
