Two Killed in Separate Interstate 95 Crashes in Westbrook, Connecticut
WESTBROOK, Conn. — A devastating morning on Interstate 95 claimed the lives of two individuals in separate crashes on Friday, according to Connecticut State Police. The victims have been identified as 39-year-old Nicholas Kupec of Waterford and 22-year-old Isabella Butzgy of Montville. Both crashes have left the local community reeling and authorities urging motorists to exercise caution.
Police report that the incidents occurred during the early hours of Friday morning, a time when traffic on the busy interstate is typically heavy with commuters. The first crash involved Nicholas Kupec, who was traveling southbound when his vehicle collided with another vehicle under circumstances still under investigation. Emergency responders arrived promptly, but Kupec was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash caused significant traffic delays as authorities worked to clear the wreckage.
Shortly thereafter, a separate crash occurred on the same stretch of Interstate 95, resulting in the death of Isabella Butzgy. State police have confirmed that Butzgy was traveling northbound when the collision happened. She was also pronounced dead at the scene. Several other drivers involved in the crashes sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Authorities say the conditions and contributing factors of both crashes are still being investigated.
Family and friends of the victims are mourning the sudden loss of two promising lives. Nicholas Kupec is remembered as a devoted father, husband, and active member of the Waterford community. “Nick had a heart of gold,” a family member said. “He was always there for his friends and family, and his presence will be deeply missed.”
Isabella Butzgy, a young Montville resident, is remembered as a vibrant and energetic individual with a bright future ahead. “She had so much life to live and touched everyone she met,” a friend said. “It’s heartbreaking to lose someone so young and full of promise.”
Connecticut State Police continue to investigate both crashes and have urged anyone with information to come forward. Authorities have also emphasized the importance of safe driving practices, particularly during early morning hours when visibility and road conditions can be challenging.
The tragedies have sparked conversations within the community about roadway safety and the dangers of distracted or impaired driving. Local officials and police urge drivers to remain alert and vigilant while traveling on interstate highways, particularly during peak traffic hours.
As Westbrook and the surrounding communities come to terms with the loss of Kupec and Butzgy, family, friends, and neighbors are finding ways to honor their memory. Memorials and vigils are being organized to pay tribute to the lives of those lost in these heartbreaking accidents.
The deaths of Nicholas Kupec and Isabella Butzgy are a stark reminder of how quickly life can change on the road. Their passing leaves a void in their communities, but their families and friends continue to celebrate the lives they lived and the memories they shared.