Hagerstown, MD – Fatal Collision on I-81 near MM 10, Two Dead, Multiple Injuries Reported

Hagerstown, MD (September 1, 2023) – On the morning of September 1st, a major traffic collision occurred on Interstate 81, involving four tractor-trailers and two cars, resulting in two fatalities and multiple injuries.

The incident unfolded at around 9:40 a.m., just north of Hagerstown, near mile marker 10, causing the closure of the southbound lanes of I-81.

According to Maryland State Police, the initial collision was triggered when a Chevrolet Tahoe, driven by 55-year-old Wesley Merrick from Wellsville, New York, struck the rear of a tractor-trailer that was slowing down due to traffic conditions. This initial impact set off a chain reaction involving three other tractor-trailers and a pickup truck.

Tragically, Wesley Merrick and a passenger, Alicia Eve Cornell, also from Wellsville, lost their lives at the scene.

Two additional passengers in the Tahoe, along with the driver of one of the tractor-trailers, sustained injuries during the collision. One of the injured victims was swiftly transported to a hospital via helicopter, while the other two were taken by ambulance for immediate medical attention.

Local authorities are handling the investigations to determine the root cause of the crash at this moment.

Our hearts go out to the families and friends affected by this tragic accident. We hope for a swift and full recovery for the injured victims.