While Rhode Island ranks amongst the lowest states in the US when it comes to fatalities on the road, severe road accidents can still occur. In fact, according to data from 2021, there were 63 road deaths recorded in The Plantation State alone. Last Friday, on the 8th August, a vehicle crashed into the back of a garbage truck at the intersection of Mink Street and Route 114. Yesterday, East Providence Police Department released shocking footage of the accident as it unfolded. Be warned that the following footage is quite graphic.
As you can see, the brief 15-second video highlights just how fast the vehicle was moving when it collided into the back of the garbage truck. The footage shows the back of the refuse truck, with the compaction system at the bottom of the frame, and an empty road behind it. Moments later, you can see a pair of headlights come into view as a speeding vehicle hurtles towards the waste collection lorry, which has allegedly stopped at a red light, according to the police.
The white Nissan Altima vehicle doesn’t seem to slow down at all, and smashes straight into the rear-end of the garbage truck at very high speed, crushing the bonnet, the doors, and shattering the windshield and front windows. All that’s left is a total wreck, with smoke billowing out from the remains of the crash.
Luckily, the driver and the passenger — both young adults — survived the collision, though they are both in critical condition at Rhode Island hospital. The workers inside the waste collection lorry only sustained minor injuries. In addition, officials say that the driver of the Nissan Altima — Ogiba — is facing charges of reckless driving and numerous driving citations. While police are still currently investigating the incident, social media users were shocked by the violent crash.
On Reddit, one commenter said what most people are likely thinking after seeing the video, writing, “I’m actually surprised they survived the impact.” while another replied to this, penning, “Especially the passenger. Driver got an airbag, passenger I can’t tell but that side is definitely more destroyed in the first place.” Others were shocked by the fact that the driver didn’t seem to try to brake or slow down the vehicle before the crash occurred, with one saying, “Actually unbelievable. No way they tried to slow down or avoid impact. Just straight into it man“
Local police are asking anyone with information to contact the department at 401-435-7600, ext. 20070. Hopefully, the driver and the passenger make a speedy recovery.
