A tragic accident on New Year’s Day resulted in the death of a driver and injuries to others on Interstate 95 in Delaware. The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 1, near the Interstate 495 interchange, according to the New Castle County Police Department.
New Castle County paramedics were traveling southbound on I-95 in a marked Ford F-350 vehicle when they observed a crash on the left shoulder of the roadway. Activating their emergency lights, the paramedics began changing lanes to respond to the initial crash.
As the paramedic vehicle approached the scene, it collided with a 2013 Nissan Altima. The Altima was being driven by 33-year-old Kierra West of Newark, Delaware, who had a 6-year-old boy as a passenger. The paramedic vehicle came to a stop in a travel lane, while the Nissan stopped on the left shoulder.
West was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. The child passenger was transported to a nearby children’s hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The two paramedics involved in the crash were taken to a nearby hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.
Authorities have not disclosed details regarding the circumstances that led to the collision between the paramedic vehicle and the Nissan. An investigation is ongoing to determine the sequence of events and contributing factors.
The crash highlights the inherent risks of emergency response situations, particularly in high-traffic areas. Interstate 95 remained partially closed for several hours as police and emergency crews worked to clear the scene and gather evidence.
Law enforcement officials have extended their condolences to the family of Kierra West and emphasized the importance of road safety, particularly during emergency situations. They also urge drivers to exercise caution when approaching emergency vehicles with activated lights.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
