Local News

Driver escapes fiery crash on Route 7 south

RUTLAND—On Friday, Aug. 26, at approximately 11:40 p.m. Trooper Meytin responded to a crash at the G. W. Savage parking lot, located at 1011 US Route 7 South, Rutland Town. Christopher D. Wells of Rutland was operating a 2001 Ford F-150 truck, traveling southbound on Route 7, when he reportedly fell asleep and veered off the road. He traveled approximately 150 feet, striking a utility trailer parked in the G. W. Savage lot. The initial impact pushed the trailer into another parked trailer and a parked Chevrolet Blazer.

As a result of the collision, Wells’ truck erupted into flames. Both his truck and the initial trailer struck by Wells’ truck were considered a total loss. Damage to the other two vehicles was minor.

Troopers were assisted at the scene by the Rutland Town Fire Department. Wells was taken to Rutland Regional Medical Center complaining of headache and dizziness. He had been wearing his seatbelt.

The weather was foggy and road conditions were damp. Alcohol did not appear to be a factor, but Wells was found to be driving with his driving privileges criminally suspended. He was cited to the Vermont Superior Court-Rutland Criminal Division.

This case remains under investigation. Anyone with information regarding this crash is encouraged to contact the Vermont State Police-Rutland at (802) 773-9101.

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