An 18-year-old man has died following a late-night crash on Sunday, just minutes before midnight, near Exit 36. Police identified the victim as Valentin Junior Collazo, whose vehicle went out of control and left the roadway before crashing into a rock wall. The tragedy has shaken the community as investigators work to determine what caused the young driver to lose control in the moments leading up to the fatal accident.
According to police, Collazo was driving a Mazda sedan when the vehicle veered from the left lane onto the shoulder. From there, it traveled across the grassy gore area of the Exit 36 entrance ramp and continued over the ramp before ultimately striking a rock wall. The impact was severe and left the vehicle heavily damaged, prompting first responders to take immediate action upon arrival. The crash scene was described as chaotic and heartbreaking as emergency crews worked urgently to save Collazo.
Authorities confirmed that there was one passenger in the car at the time of the crash. The passenger, identified as a 17-year-old girl from the Terryville area of Plymouth, suffered minor injuries, according to police. She was able to be treated for her injuries, but the emotional toll of witnessing such a devastating crash is expected to be significant. Police have not released further details about her condition or whether she has provided additional information about what may have led to the loss of control.
Emergency personnel performed CPR on Collazo at the scene before he was transported to St. Vincent’s Medical Center. Despite the efforts made to revive him, he was later pronounced dead at the hospital. For family members and friends, the news has been devastating, as they mourn the loss of a teenager whose life was just beginning. Collazo’s age and the sudden nature of the crash have left many in the community grieving and searching for comfort in the wake of such a tragic loss.
Investigators are now focused on determining what caused the vehicle to veer off the roadway. Late-night driving can pose multiple risks, including fatigue, reduced visibility, speed, or distractions, though police have not yet identified any specific factors. The stretch near Exit 36 is known for its curves and changes in elevation, and authorities will be reviewing evidence, speaking with witnesses, and analyzing the vehicle to learn more about the moments leading up to the impact.
