CLINTON, Conn. — The Connecticut community is grieving the sudden loss of Nicholas John “Nick” Kupec, 39, of Waterford, who died Friday morning in a devastating multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 95.
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According to Connecticut State Police, the chain-reaction crash happened around 7:42 a.m. near Exit 64 in Clinton after a tractor-trailer traveling northbound lost its load of plywood sheets. The debris scattered across the southbound lanes, triggering a four-vehicle collision that sent cars crashing into one another, a metal guardrail, and the concrete median barrier.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, and Kupec was transported to Yale New Haven Hospital. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead.
Three other motorists involved in the crash were taken to Middlesex Health Shoreline Medical Center in Westbrook. Two suffered minor injuries, while another was evaluated and appeared unharmed. The tractor-trailer driver and a passenger were not injured. The truck is owned by Alonzo W Griffin Enterprises LLC, a Texas-based company that has not yet released a statement.
The Connecticut Department of Transportation also reported structural damage to the Route 145 overpass above I-95, forcing a temporary closure while inspectors assessed the bridge’s safety.
Remembering Nick Kupec
Born in Milford and raised in North Haven, Kupec graduated from North Haven High School and went on to build a life in Waterford with his wife, Kristy Kupec. For 18 years, he worked with Metro-North Railroad, where he was respected not only as a dedicated employee but also as a strong advocate for his fellow workers.
As the recording secretary for Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 2055, Kupec was known for his integrity, fairness, and tireless support of his colleagues. Friends and family describe him as a kindhearted, hardworking man with a warm sense of humor and a deep commitment to those he loved.
“He always put others first, whether it was at work or at home,” one colleague shared. “Nick was the kind of person who made everyone around him feel valued.”
Investigation Ongoing
State police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash, focusing on how the tractor-trailer lost its load and whether safety violations may have played a role. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Troop F in Westbrook.
A Community in Mourning
The news of Kupec’s passing has deeply shaken Waterford and surrounding towns. Friends, neighbors, and co-workers have expressed their grief, remembering him as a devoted husband, loyal friend, and tireless union advocate. Vigils and memorials are expected in the coming days as the community rallies to honor his memory.
Kupec’s death highlights the dangers of unsecured loads on highways and has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations. While his life was tragically cut short, his legacy of compassion, dedication, and service will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.