CONCORD, N.H. – Sunday, July 13, 2025 – Tragedy struck on a busy stretch of Interstate 89 this past Sunday, when a two-vehicle crash claimed the life of Curtis Avery, a 69-year-old resident of Loudon, New Hampshire. The accident occurred in the southbound lanes of I-89 in Concord and led to a multi-hour closure of the roadway as authorities responded and began their investigation.
According to the New Hampshire State Police, Troopers from the Troop D barracks were dispatched to the scene shortly after reports of a serious collision between two vehicles: a 1979 orange Volkswagen Bus and a 2023 white Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van.
First Responders Rush to Save a Life
Upon arrival, Troopers were joined by personnel from the Concord Fire Department, as well as EMS units, who were informed of life-threatening injuries to one of the drivers. Emergency crews worked swiftly to extricate the injured driver from the heavily damaged Volkswagen and performed life-saving measures at the scene.
Sadly, Curtis Avery, the driver of the Volkswagen, succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased after being transported to a nearby hospital. His death marks a solemn moment for the Loudon community, where he was known as a kind, thoughtful neighbor and lifelong New Hampshire native.
The driver of the Mercedes-Benz van was also taken to the hospital for a precautionary evaluation but did not sustain any critical injuries.
What Happened? Preliminary Investigation Findings
An initial investigation into the crash revealed that heavy congestion had slowed and eventually stopped traffic along the southbound stretch of I-89. Investigators say that as traffic came to a halt, the Volkswagen Bus failed to stop in time and struck the rear of the Mercedes-Benz van.
The Volkswagen sustained severe front-end damage as a result of the impact. Given the age and structure of the older vehicle, authorities believe the force of the collision contributed significantly to the extent of Avery’s injuries.
Traffic Disruption and Response Efforts
Following the accident, I-89 southbound was closed for approximately three hours, as investigators and emergency crews worked at the scene. Members of the New Hampshire Department of Transportation assisted in traffic management and supported the response team.
The New Hampshire State Police Crash Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate the incident, analyzing physical evidence and gathering witness statements to confirm the full sequence of events.
Call for Witnesses
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who may have dashcam footage of the area during that time to reach out. Individuals with information are encouraged to contact Trooper Kyle Cotnoir
Remembering Curtis Avery
Family, friends, and neighbors in Loudon and surrounding communities are mourning the unexpected loss of Curtis Avery. Known for his love of classic vehicles—particularly his iconic orange VW Bus—Curtis was more than just a driver on the road that day. He was a beloved community member with deep roots in New Hampshire and a warm, friendly spirit.
Tributes have begun appearing online and in local forums, remembering him as a man who lived simply and generously, with a passion for life and the open road. His passing serves as a somber reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike—even on the most routine of drives.
A Reminder to All Drivers
This fatal crash underscores the importance of remaining vigilant, especially in congested traffic conditions. State Police have issued a renewed warning for motorists to:
- Maintain safe following distances
- Avoid distractions behind the wheel
- Be alert to traffic flow changes
- Ensure that all occupants are wearing seatbelts
Modern vehicles offer enhanced safety features, but accidents involving older models, like the vintage Volkswagen Bus, highlight the potential vulnerabilities during high-impact collisions.
In Memory
As the investigation continues, the community honors the memory of Curtis Avery. The road he traveled may have ended in tragedy, but his memory will remain alive in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those touched by his presence.
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