A fatal collision on Interstate 293 in Manchester led to the death of a Salem man yesterday morning. The accident occurred at around 8:20 a.m., bringing emergency responders from surrounding areas to the scene. State Troopers from the Troop B barracks were called to the area of mile marker 2.4 following the report of the serious crash involving two vehicles, according to New Hampshire State Police.
John Vangelder, 72, was the driver of a red Ford F-150 pickup truck and sustained fatal injuries after being ejected from his vehicle. The other vehicle, a black Cadillac SRX, was driven by 48-year-old James Drago of Amherst, who was unharmed in the collision. State police reported that Drago stayed at the scene to assist with the inquiry.
The impact of the crash necessitated the closure of multiple northbound lanes on I-293, causing traffic delays in the area. Normal traffic flow resumed later that morning when all lanes were reopened at approximately 11:15 a.m. The Manchester Fire Department and the New Hampshire Department of Transportation were among the agencies assisting troopers at the scene of the accident.
As the investigation into the cause of the tragic event continues, authorities are requesting assistance from the public. Anyone who witnessed the accident or has dash camera footage is being urged to contact Trooper Alex Peplinski. The contact information released by the state police is 603-227-0076 or via email at [email protected]. The circumstances leading up to crash are still under investigation, with the hope that additional evidence may provide clarity on this incident.
