Fatal Crash Under Investigation on I-84 in East Hartford
Connecticut state police are currently investigating a fatal crash on I-84 in East Hartford. The incident happened early in the morning, when multiple reports were received about a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction on I-84 east near Exit 55.
According to authorities, the wrong way vehicle was traveling west in the left lane and collided with a concrete barrier in the left shoulder. The vehicle came to an uncontrolled stop in the left lane and shoulder of I-84. Shockingly, the driver of the wrong way vehicle exited the vehicle and was standing in the left lane when another vehicle struck both the passenger side and the driver.
Tragically, the driver who was struck, identified as 29-year-old Westley Clemente-fuentes from East Hartford, suffered serious injuries and was rushed to Hartford Hospital. Despite medical efforts, he later succumbed to his injuries and tragically lost his life.
Fortunately, the two passengers in the wrong way vehicle were unharmed. However, the driver of the second vehicle, a Honda Civic, fled the scene initially but was later located at Manchester Memorial Hospital. Identified as 21-year-old Ileaha Porter, the driver displayed signs of impairment.
Upon failing a field sobriety test, Porter has been charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. She posted a bond of $10,000 and is scheduled to appear in Hartford Superior Court on September 23.
Following the incident, the highway was temporarily closed but has since been reopened to the public. Connecticut state police are urging anyone with information or video footage relating to the crash to come forward and assist with the investigation.
As the investigation progresses, our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends of Westley Clemente-fuentes. The loss of a loved one in such a tragic manner is truly devastating.
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