PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A tragic crash on Interstate 95 in Providence Monday night claimed the life of one person after they were struck by a passing vehicle. The incident, which occurred on the northbound side of the busy highway, has left authorities piecing together what led to the fatal encounter.
According to a spokesperson for the Providence Police Department, the collision was reported at approximately 9:15 p.m. near Exit 37, an area that often experiences steady traffic even during late evening hours. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene following multiple calls from passing motorists who reported a serious accident on the roadway.
When officers and paramedics arrived, they found that the pedestrian had sustained fatal injuries. Despite efforts by first responders to provide assistance, the individual was pronounced dead at the scene. Their identity has not yet been released pending notification of family members.
The driver of the vehicle involved in the crash was transported to a nearby hospital. Authorities confirmed the motorist suffered only minor injuries, though they did not specify whether the driver was admitted for observation or released shortly afterward. No additional details about the driver, such as age or identity, have been shared with the public at this time.
Police have not clarified the circumstances that led the pedestrian to be on the interstate, where foot traffic is prohibited. Investigators are considering several factors, including whether the individual may have been attempting to cross the highway, experiencing vehicle trouble, or was on the roadway for another reason. The stretch of I-95 where the collision occurred is heavily traveled and known for high speeds, making it particularly hazardous for anyone on foot.
Traffic in the area was severely impacted as police closed off several lanes to allow investigators to conduct a reconstruction of the crash. Motorists traveling northbound late Monday night faced delays as officers diverted vehicles away from the scene. Crews worked for hours to document evidence, mark skid patterns, and examine the vehicle involved before the lanes were reopened.
The Providence Police Department confirmed that the investigation remains active. Detectives are reviewing available traffic camera footage and speaking with witnesses who may have been driving in the area at the time of the crash. The Rhode Island Department of Transportation also assisted by providing traffic management support during the road closure.
Fatal crashes involving pedestrians on highways are not common but do occur from time to time. Safety experts note that interstates are designed for high-speed vehicular traffic, and pedestrians have very little chance of survival if struck. In most cases, pedestrian incidents on highways involve people whose cars have broken down or those attempting to cross on foot in dangerous conditions.
Community members have expressed shock at the news, with many taking to social media to share condolences and voice concerns about nighttime safety on the state’s busiest highway. The incident has also reignited discussion about better lighting, barriers, and public awareness regarding the dangers of walking on or near major roadways.
As of Tuesday morning, officials had not provided further updates on the victim’s identity or possible reasons for their presence on the interstate. The police emphasized that a full investigation will be conducted before any conclusions are drawn.
For now, the fatal crash serves as a sobering reminder of the risks posed by high-speed roadways and the unpredictable circumstances that can place pedestrians in harm’s way. Authorities continue to urge motorists to remain alert, especially during evening hours, and remind the public that highways are not safe for foot travel.
