By Crash News Writer 
Milford, CT (July 18, 2026) – A 24-year-old Stratford woman, Catherine Palaia, died after a detached tire crossed the median of Interstate 95 and struck her vehicle near Exit 41 on July 12. The fatal crash occurred at approximately 10:23 p.m., near the Milford rest stop.
According to the Connecticut State Police, Palaia was driving a Toyota RAV4 southbound in the left of three lanes while a Ford F-250 traveled northbound. For reasons under investigation, the Ford’s front-left tire detached, struck multiple vehicles in the northbound lanes, and bounced over the concrete median barrier.
The tire then struck the Toyota’s windshield and roof. The RAV4 traveled across the southbound lanes, struck a metal guardrail, and ultimately came to rest in the center median. A Milford Fire Department paramedic pronounced Palaia dead at the scene.
Authorities closed portions of Interstate 95 for approximately seven hours while investigators examined the crash. The Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Squad responded to assist with the investigation. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that may help investigators was asked to contact Connecticut State Police Troop G in Bridgeport.
Protect Your Rights After a Fatal Accident Today
Fatal roadway accidents can involve complex questions about vehicle maintenance, mechanical failures, insurance coverage, and potential liability. Families affected by a fatal crash should consider preserving available evidence, including photographs, vehicle records, witness information, insurance correspondence, medical documentation, and the official car accident report. Acting promptly may be particularly important when vehicles or mechanical components need to be inspected before evidence is altered or lost.
Understanding car accident laws in Connecticut can help families learn about legal issues that may arise following a fatal collision. People searching for a car accident near me or a car accident near Milford may also need assistance understanding insurance claims, wrongful death procedures, and applicable filing deadlines. A search for car accident near me or car accident near Milford can identify local services, but individual legal advice should come from a qualified professional. Obtaining the car accident report and seeking timely legal guidance can help families understand their options and protect important evidence.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information released by authorities and may be revised as investigators develop additional findings. Readers seeking general information about the legal process after a serious collision can review frequently asked questions in Connecticut.
Additional investigative findings concerning why the Ford F-250’s tire detached, the condition of the vehicle, and any potential citations or charges may be released when available. Road closures and traffic conditions related to major incidents should be confirmed through local authorities or traffic monitoring services. Families and others affected by serious crashes can also review accident resources in Connecticut for additional information.
The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. Information is based on public reports available at the time of publication, and details may change as the investigation progresses. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more with our disclaimer.
Families affected by a fatal crash should call an attorney as soon as possible to discuss their legal rights and possible next steps. A Connecticut personal injury lawyer can review the circumstances, explain available options, and help determine what actions may be appropriate.