Pittsfield, ME (January 1, 2025) – A fatal crash occurred Tuesday morning on Interstate 95 in Pittsfield, involving a wrong-way driver and a head-on collision. The incident, reported around 11:00 AM, forced the closure of southbound lanes for several hours.
Maine State Police began receiving reports of a wrong-way driver traveling north in the southbound lanes near mile 142 in Burnham. While troopers were en route to intercept the vehicle, a head-on collision was reported at mile 147 in Pittsfield. The wrong-way driver, identified as 82-year-old Ivan Cunningham of Corinna, was driving a Ford Focus when he collided with a Ford F-150 driven by 27-year-old Nathaniel Blanchard of Stetson.
Cunningham was pronounced dead at the scene, while Blanchard sustained injuries described as non-life-threatening and was airlifted to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center. The severity of the crash resulted in the closure of I-95 southbound lanes, with traffic diverted at Exit 150 by Maine State Police and the Maine Department of Transportation.
The cause of the wrong-way driving incident is under investigation. Our thoughts are with the family of Ivan Cunningham and with Nathaniel Blanchard as he recovers from his injuries.
Wrong-Way Crashes in Maine
Wrong-way driving incidents, like the one on I-95, are among the most severe types of traffic accidents due to their high likelihood of causing head-on collisions. Such crashes often result from driver confusion, medical emergencies, or impaired driving, and they frequently lead to serious injuries or fatalities.
Victims of wrong-way crashes often face significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. For those injured, seeking immediate medical attention and legal counsel can help address the long-term implications of the accident.
Drivers are reminded to remain vigilant and alert for unusual traffic patterns, particularly on highways, where wrong-way incidents can occur. Safety measures such as clear signage and rumble strips can also help prevent these types of accidents.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports. If you or someone you know has been involved in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.