In a tragic incident on Wednesday night, three individuals lost their lives in a fiery wrong-way crash on the Maine Turnpike in Portland. The incident occurred near mile marker 48 at approximately 9:40 p.m., according to Shannon Moss, a spokesperson for the Maine Department of Public Safety.

Reports indicate that a gray 2018 Honda Civic was seen speeding southward on the northbound side of the turnpike. The Honda violently collided with a silver 2020 Ford F-150 pickup truck, causing extensive damage to both vehicles. Despite the collision, the Honda continued its deadly trajectory until it struck a black 2013 Toyota Rav4 near mile marker 45.

The impact of the crash was so severe that both the Toyota and the Honda burst into flames, quickly becoming engulfed in fire. Tragically, both occupants of the Honda, whose identities have not yet been released, were pronounced dead at the crash site. Similarly, the sole occupant of the Toyota also succumbed to their injuries and was declared deceased at the scene.

The exact circumstances leading to the wrong-way crash are still under investigation, as authorities work to determine how and why the Honda was traveling in the wrong direction. As the investigation unfolds, the Maine Department of Public Safety urges witnesses or anyone with pertinent information to come forward.

The Maine Turnpike was temporarily closed as emergency personnel responded to the crash site and worked to extinguish the blazing vehicles. Traffic delays were observed in the area in the wake of the incident.

The loss of three lives in this tragic wrong-way crash serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers associated with reckless driving. The Maine State Police, along with other law enforcement agencies, are committed to ensuring the safety of all motorists on the state's roadways. As such, they continue to investigate this incident diligently to shed light on the factors contributing to this deadly crash.

In the wake of this devastating accident, our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of the victims. May they find solace and strength during this difficult time.