SALEM, N.H. — A deadly crash on Interstate 93 South in Salem, New Hampshire on Thursday afternoon led to hours of traffic gridlock for drivers as all lanes of the highway were closed.
WMUR managing editor Dave Sakowich was among those stuck on the highway for hours after the crash occurred around 4:30 p.m. Sakowich described the scene, stating that traffic came to a complete stop with no movement for four hours until around 8:30 p.m. when state police allowed drivers to start moving the wrong way down I-93 to escape the traffic. This led Sakowich and hundreds of other drivers to cross over the median into the northbound lane of traffic, with smaller cars being able to exit first.
Sakowich also observed that despite the seriousness of the crash, the other drivers stuck in the traffic showed patience and understanding towards the situation. He noted that some vehicles involved in the crash had suffered significant damage, with debris scattered across the highway.
The closure of the highway had a significant impact on traffic, leaving many drivers stranded for hours. Even larger vehicles such as tractor-trailers and charter buses were affected, with some still parked on the highway by the time Sakowich and other cars were able to leave the area.
The experience of being stuck in the traffic and witnessing the aftermath of the crash left a lasting impression on Sakowich, who expressed gratitude for the patience and understanding shown by his fellow drivers during such a challenging situation. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of traffic and the importance of safety precautions while traveling on highways.